The best plan for aging teeth is to get close with your dentist!
As people age, maintaining good oral health becomes increasingly important. This blog is for anyone nearing or above 50, and anyone close to or taking care of a senior. Here are some key times and reasons why aging individuals should start paying closer attention to their dental care.
When to start seeing the dentist more frequently
As you age, it’s wise to start paying closer attention to your oral health. If you are near or over 50 years, we recommend getting closer with your dentist so we can monitor your oral health as you age. Women should be particularly vigilant post-menopause due to hormonal changes that can impact oral health, including dry mouth and increased gum disease risk. Additionally, if you develop chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis, which can affect oral health and become more prevalent with age, it’s crucial to monitor dental health closely. After undergoing significant dental procedures such as implants, dentures, or bridges, maintaining rigorous dental hygiene becomes essential to ensure the longevity of dental work.
Reasons for increased vigilance with age
- Aging can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, which, if untreated, can cause tooth loss and other serious health problems.
- Medications and age-related changes can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Teeth and gums can become weaker and more susceptible to damage and decay with age.
- Chronic illnesses and the medications used to treat them can have side effects that impact oral health.
- Regular dental check-ups can help catch problems early, making them easier to treat and preventing more severe issues.
6 oral health tips for seniors
- Regular Dental Check-Ups.
Visit the dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and check-ups.
- Proper Oral Hygiene.
Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
- Stay Hydrated.
Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth (xerostomia). .
- Healthy Diet.
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support dental health, and limit sugary and acidic foods.
- Manage Chronic Conditions.
Keep chronic health conditions under control and discuss any potential impacts on oral health with both your doctor and dentist.
- Use Dental Products Designed for Seniors.
Consider using toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwashes specifically formulated for older adults.
Oral health and diabetes
If you have diabetes, here are 8 reasons why you need your dentist on your diabetes management team.
Dentures aren’t your only choice for aging teeth
By starting to pay closer attention to dental health at these key times and following these tips, you can help ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy for years to come. Many older adults who take good care of their teeth throughout their life will not need dentures.
If you will need dentures, visit this article where we answer commonly asked questions about our in-house denture studio in the heart of Saskatoon.
