Sylvia, aged 57, wants to buy a mouthwash for her partner John, aged 60, whose gums bleed when he brushes his teeth. She has read that gum disease can cause heart disease, which concerns her as John's father died of heart disease. Think about:

• What questions would you ask Sylvia?
• What advice would you give Sylvia to improve John's oral health?
• In addition to a mouthwash, what products could you recommend?
• Are you confident enough to explain how to use a mouthwash, dental floss and interdental brushes? Can you explain the use of the different sizes of interdental brushes?
• How might you motivate Sylvia and hence her partner to practice good oral care? Think of the words you might use
• What would you say in relation to Sylvia's concerns about the association between gum disease and heart disease? Is the link proven? Discuss the evidence with your pharmacist.