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Dentures need the same level of care and attention as natural teeth do. Bacteria and fungi that grow on teeth can also infect a dental appliance. Pressure spots on the gums can lead to pain and potential infection. Poor denture care can also result in stains and bad breath. Encourage your family member to develop a solid routine.

If you were asked to name the stresses in your life, you might think first about all the tasks and responsibilities you are juggling. Or challenging relationships. Or financial difficulties. Less obvious are the stressors in your environment that can tax your nervous system behind the scenes. "Junk stimulation," like junk mail, simply overwhelms the brain for no real purpose. Clutter and noise are two stimulants that create unnecessary stress.

As we age we become more prone to tooth decay and infections of the gums. If dental infections go undetected or ignored, the consequences are not small. Cavities, gum disease, and decay of tooth roots are painful, and expensive to fix. (Medicare does not cover dentistry!) Loss of teeth can result in poor nutrition and social isolation if your loved one is embarrassed. And, gum disease and tooth loss have been linked to serious conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Here's what to look for as potential signs of dental disease.