Dentist urges more checkups as you get older

The risk of getting oral cancer grows as you age, and dentists urge the elderly to get regular check-ups. Dr. Raymond Kuthy of the University of Iowa dental school says better technology and other advances still haven’t dramatically lowered the risk of oral disease for senior citizens.Kuthy says the condition of your mouth will determine how often you should see a dentist. He says some people are more prone to dental disease than others.Like nearly every dentist, Kuthy says you should floss every day and stay away from sweets. Kuthy says giving up smoking or chewing tobacco can be the single biggest step young people can take to ensure they keep their own teeth in old age.