Ahhh… aging is a process we will all endure at some point in time. If you are above the age of 65, taking care of your teeth and maintaining good oral health is extremely important. The older you are, the higher your risk of developing specific oral problems. Through regular maintenance, you can ensure you are doing your part to avoid oral health complications such as gum disease. Seniors who visit our family dentist in West st Paul, are always treated with the utmost care and respect. Looking and feeling your best requires you to allocate time to routine dental visits and dental care. If it has been more than six months since you visited a dentist near you, it is time to make that call and schedule an appointment. Continue reading to learn more about the significance of dental care for seniors.
Do you know seniors are at a higher risk of dental issues?
When it comes to aging, many things change which means lines and wrinkles are not the only differences you will notice. Over time, the oral environment can change which means that as you age, your saliva production can decrease and this causes dry mouth. Experiencing dry mouth can result in gum disease and tooth decay because the acid and bacteria in your mouth are not being washed away as well as it once was.
Preventing Oral Health Problems Through Regular Dental Care for Seniors
Did you also know that virtually 1 in 5 people aged 65 and above have experienced tooth loss due to gum disease and tooth decay? Now, you may be wondering what tips you can implement in your daily life to prevent oral issues and complications. Look no further, we have prepared a list of tips that you can practice to avoid pesky dental problems related to ageing.
1. Visit your dentist in Winnipeg:
This is a fairly obvious tip but it can often be overlooked. Routine dental checkups with your dentist are essential because they enable your dentist to “check” for any issues or abnormalities and then devise a treatment plan if necessary.
2. Replace old restorations:
Very few things in life, last a lifetime! Your old fillings and crowns are no exception to this. Your dentist can assess your previous dental work and determine if it requires replacement.
3. Brush and floss every day:
Pick up your toothbrush and begin brushing! You should be brushing a minimum of twice per day for at least 2 minutes seven days a week. Don’t forget to use dental floss and create a C shape, to dislodge food and bacteria stuck between your teeth.
4. Receive periodontal treatment and deep cleanings:
Every 3 months, you will need to schedule an appointment for periodontal treatment and deep cleaning if you suffer from gum disease.
5. Drink water:
When you stay hydrated, you prevent dry mouth. Drinking an adequate amount of water regularly, especially as a senior can help to ensure saliva is being produced at a more normal rate.
6. Eat a balanced diet:
Eating a balanced diet is vital to your oral and overall health, try your best to avoid excessive sugar and starch as consuming it can cause bacteria to grow on your teeth.
7. Stick to your dentist’s recommendation:
To learn which toothpaste is best to use for your teeth, speak with a dentist near you. They can provide a recommendation. When it comes to choosing the correct toothpaste and mouth rinse for your mouth, look for products that are verified by the Canadian Dental Association. Keep an eye out for toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen and protect your teeth.
Do not let ageing get in the way of living your best life. A family dentist near you can provide quality dental care for a healthy and happy smile.