For people who have strong jaw bones and healthy gums, implants usually are successful. Anyone who fails to take care of his teeth can lose them. Others are simply more prone to severe periodontal or gum disease, which slowly and often painlessly causes the gums to detach from the teeth. If left untreated, the supporting bone may also dissolve, causing the teeth to become loose. An estrogen deficiency can lead to gum disease and tooth loss, according to Dr. Barbara J. Steinberg, the American Dental Association's spokesperson on women's oral health issues.
Women are most at risk for osteoporosis.
Other risk factors are advanced age, slender build, sedentary life, smoking, heavy daily alcohol consumption, family history and a life-long low calcium intake. Noreen Seebacher Help for older adults You have arthritis, or maybe your hands just don't have the flexibility they had in your youth. Widen the brush handle with a sponge, rubber ball or bicycle handle grip. Or try winding an elastic bandage or adhesive tape around the handle. Use a ruler, popsicle stick or tongue depressor to lengthen the handle.