Hi BillO,

ALS can "indirectly" contribute to dental problems with the teeth and gums. What that means is........ when the ALS person starts to change their oral cleaning habits (brushing and flossing) due to reduced or impaired motor skills, the plaque builds up on the teeth. This buildup of bacteria causes the gum tissue to become inflammed and also causes cavities to develop.

Generally people who have difficulty brushing and flossing will also get a build up of hard tartar which initially feels smooth to the tongue but then as pieces chip off, the gum areas behind the teeth feel sharp and jagged. The most common place to get this tartar buildup is behind the 6 upper and/or lower front teeth. But it can develop on all surfaces of every tooth.

Some suggestions I offer to ALS patients and others with impaired motor skill function:

1)Use an electric toothbrush 4 times a day.

2)Rinse with xylitol in water after every meal. http://www.xylitol.org/

3)If you are unable to manuver the toothbrush, have someone brush your teeth for you if at all possible.

4)See a dentist for cleanings and exams once every 3 months, if at all possible.

Oral health affects our overall health in many, many ways. I hope my suggestions are helpful to you and others.

Take care,
Bryanna