It's important for all individuals -- regardless of age -- to: Brush at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste Floss at least once a day Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day Visit your dentist on a regular schedule for cleaning and an oral exam Antibacterial mouth rinse can reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease, according to the American Dental Association dental air compressor. What Seniors Can Expect During a Dental Exam If you're a senior headed for a check up, your dentist should conduct a thorough history and dental exam micro motor. Questions asked during a dental history should include: The approximate date of your last dental visit and reason for the visit If you have noticed any recent changes in your mouth If you have noticed any loose or sensitive teeth If you have noticed any difficulty tasting, chewing, or swallowing If you have any pain, discomfort, sores, or bleeding in your mouth If you have noticed any lumps, bumps, or swellings in your mouth During an oral exam, your dentist will check the following: your face and neck (for skin discoloration, moles, sores); your bite (for any problems in how the teeth come together while opening and closing your mouth); your jaw (for signs of clicking and popping in the temporomandibular joint); your lymph nodes and salivary glands (for any sign of swelling or lumps); your inner cheeks (for infections, ulcers, traumatic injuries); your tongue and other interior surfaces -- floor of the mouth, soft and hard palate, gum tissue (for signs of infection or oral cancer); and your teeth (for decay, condition of fillings, and cracks). If you wear dentures or other appliances, your dentist will ask a few questions about when you wear your dentures and when you take them out (if removable). He or she will also look for any irritation or problems in the areas in the mouth that the appliance touches, and examine the denture or appliance itself (looking for any worn or broken areas). Financial Aid for Seniors' Dental Care If you are a senior on a limited or fixed income and can't afford regular dental care, many dentists offer their services at reduced fees through dental society-sponsored assistance programs. Since aid varies from one community to another, call your local dental society for information about where you can find the nearest assistance programs and low-cost care locations (such as public health clinics and dental school clinics). Also, check your local phone book, the internet, or your local dental society dental vibrator.