Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/19/2016 -- One of the most important issues to be concerned about when aging is the importance of taking good care of one's teeth and oral health. People think that losing their teeth is a foregone conclusion, but that is not true. If cared for properly, teeth can last a lifetime.

"A lot of changes occur as individuals get older. The nerves of the teeth get smaller, making teeth less sensitive to cavities or other problems. Of added concern may be the presence of systemic disease that not only influences the patient's ability to maintain good oral hygiene and promotion of oral health, but can actually be related to the occurrence of certain oral diseases," states Dr. LeBlanc.

Follow the tips listed below to keep a healthy mouth:

-Brush twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles. Some people benefit from using an electric toothbrush.

-Clean between teeth once a day with floss or another flossing tool.

-If an individual wears full or partial dentures, don't forget to clean them on a daily basis. Take dentures out for at least four hours every day. It's best to remove them at night.

-Drink tap water. Since most contains fluoride, it helps prevent tooth decay no matter a person's age.

-Quit smoking. Besides being at greater risk for lung and other cancers, smoking increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.

-Visit the dentist regularly for a complete dental check-up.

-Adequate nutrition is a vital factor in promoting health and the wellbeing of the aged.

By adopting healthy oral habits at home, making smart choices about diet and lifestyle, and seeking regular dental care, helps teeth last a lifetime. The above tips also apply to caretakers for older parents, a spouse or a friend that can't maintain good oral health anymore. These steps can prevent many problems, but tasks that once seemed so simple can become very challenging.

When caring for someone who is confined to bed, they may have so many health problems that it's easy to forget about oral health. Dr. LeBlanc remarks, "However, it's still very important because bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs and cause pneumonia."

A proud native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Dr. Ken LeBlanc draws on his 36+ years of dental experience to provide impeccable smiles for his patients.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.