In addition to increasing oral health concerns, such as receding gums and periodontal disease, general health conditions may also take a toll on oral health. For example, arthritis may cause stiffness in the jaw and hands. This may make it more difficult to brush and floss properly, or to open the mouth widely during dental examinations.

Older adults may also rely on an increasing number of medications. Many of these may cause side effects that affect oral health, such as dry mouth. Dry mouth can make it difficult to swallow, eat or talk. The reduction of saliva in the mouth allows food particles to remain on the teeth longer, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

However, technological improvements are helping to overcome these difficulties. Battery-operated electric toothbrushes may make brushing and flossing easier for patients with arthritis. New dental restoration techniques, such as implants help retain bone structure when teeth are lost.

"People are definitely living longer and maintaining their teeth for a longer period of time," said Dr. Eric Shapira of the Academy of General Dentistry, in a press release. "There is definitely an opportunity to preserve the smile at all ages. It's new technology in association with an old system; our body. It's a systems approach to restoring your smile and bringing back its proper function."

Copyright 2007 iVillage Total Health.