Dental hygiene may easily be overlooked, but it's an important part of keeping an aging loved one comfortable and healthy. As we age, adults in general tend to have dental problems that can cause pain or make it difficult to chew, swallow, and speak. Follow these tips when scheduling your loved one's next trip to the dentist.

• For low-cost dental programs, check with university dental schools or the local Area Agency on Aging.
• Tell the dentist all the medications the person is taking before starting dental treatment.
• Try to go to a dentist who is familiar with the person's disease.
• Find out how many visits will be needed each year.
• Ask if the office and dental chair are accessible, if that is needed.
• Ask about low-cost options to the treatment the dentist suggests.
• Ask if X rays are really necessary.
• Find out the cost of dentures, but don't trust prices that seem too good to be true. Cheap dentures may not fit correctly.
• When seeking another opinion, have all medical records and tests sent to the second dentist.