Tips For Taking Care Of Your Teeth As You Age

Teeth can last a very long time if cared for properly. However, as we age, the health risks our teeth can face become a bit of a concern for us all. This is why we should follow these helpful tips to prevent possible tooth loss, decay, mouth infections, or even oral cancer to the best of our abilities as we grow older.

The Right Tools Are Vital.

As you age, being able to brush your teeth fully can be quite a struggle. It suddenly becomes more difficult to clean those harder to reach areas of the mouth and you are left without a proper mouth cleaning each day. We recommend that you invest in a toothbrush that can help you solve this solution. If you would rather use a manual toothbrush, you should consider one with softer bristles that will be gentle on your gums. If control is the issue, we recommend a toothbrush that has a wider handle. Last but not least, for those who have a difficult time with the motion of brushing your teeth, consider an electric toothbrush. It will be able to help with those harder areas to reach.

Schedule Regular Checkups With Your Dentist.

It is important to note that as time goes on, cavities are harder to catch because the nerves in our teeth grow smaller. This makes our teeth less sensitive and it is easy for our teeth to start decaying without us knowing. That is why it is important to stay on top of your regular dental appointments. We recommend scheduling at least two-yearly appointments for full teeth cleanings to ensure that your teeth are being looked at and taken care of properly. As always, be sure to also inform your dentist of the medication you are on because some medications can be the cause of tooth decay or dry mouth.

Watch Out For Dry Mouth.

With that being said, it is important to also talk to your primary care doctor about the medications you are on and the effects that they have on your body to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you need without harming your teeth. Often times, we find that one of the biggest effects of medication for high blood pressure, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s is dry mouth. It’s important to talk with your doctors about adjusting your dosage and drinking plenty of water to prevent your mouth from becoming the perfect environment for tooth decay to thrive in.

Don’t Let Plaque Sit On Your Teeth.

If you struggle with bleeding gums, being proactive about your plaque is a necessity for you. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria built up in plaque that sits on your teeth and causes your gums to become more irritable. It is important for you to have regular checkups to prevent this disease from escalating. We wouldn’t want it to completely destroy the gums and bones holding your teeth in place. If your gums seem red, swollen, or bothersome, make sure you make an appointment to see your dentist right away. Again, it is better to catch an issue early than to have to stop it from spreading later on.

In Summary:

Staying proactive about your oral health can prevent you from having to deal with unpleasant health problems as you age. It is important that you ask the questions you have to your dentist and schedule regular visits to have your teeth cleaned so that your doctor can properly monitor the health of your teeth. Purchasing the right toothbrush, drinking plenty of water, and removing the plaque build-up on your teeth are some of the easiest ways you can begin preparing your teeth to hopefully last you a lifetime.

Categorised in: Dental Tips