No matter what age you are, maintaining your oral health is important. However, you may wonder if your dental routine needs to be adjusted as you grow older. It’s true that the passage of years naturally alters the conditions in your mouth. No matter if you have a full set of dentures, a partial set or even all of your original teeth, it’s just as important to take proper care of your mouth now as in your younger years. Dr. Bruce Spink of Birmingham, AL wants to make you aware of these tips for keeping up with your oral health once you’re over 55.
Fluoride Is Still Important
While everyone knows that products infused with fluoride are commonly recommended to parents in order to help their childrens’ teeth grow strong, and healthy, it can still help you even if you’re in your 50’s. Research has shown that older individuals have an increased risk for cavities, making the addition of products with fluoride to your daily routine a good idea.
Many toothpastes and mouthwash brands add fluoride to their products to help their consumers protect their teeth. As always, brushing at least twice daily and flossing every day are still recommended for older adults. Drinking fluoridated tap water is also recommended to help you protect your tooth enamel against decay as you age. Some dentists offer in-office fluoride treatments if you have found yourself especially prone to cavities lately.
Watch Out for Dry Mouth
Although getting older doesn’t mean you are more likely to have dry mouth, certain aspects of aging, such as taking more medications for chronic conditions, can increase your risk for dry mouth. Saliva production is important as it naturally washes away food particles and the bacteria that feed on them. This prevents tooth decay and cavities. Dry mouth can also negatively affect the fit of your dentures, causing chafing between your gums and your dentures.
If you suffer from dry mouth, there are a few changes to your lifestyle you can make to reduce your symptoms. Moisturizing mouthwash or sprays are available to help with this condition. Chewing sugar-free gum, which encourages the production of saliva. Artificial saliva, which closely mimics real saliva, is also available.
If you find these tips do not help the condition, you can also consult your doctor or dentist. If your dry mouth is caused by medication, adjusting your dose or trying a different medicine can help alleviate certain symptoms.
Caring for Your Dentures
According to dental experts, more than 170 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth, and losing teeth becomes more common as you get older. Even if you have dentures, it’s still important to take care of those dentures just as you would your natural teeth. Using a toothpaste that is specially made for cleaning dentures, and making sure you clean your dentures on a daily basis are both important for their upkeep.
Brushing your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush is also recommended to remove any bacteria and food particles from your mouth. If you have partial dentures, be sure to floss between the implants that hold them before you put the dentures back in. Dr. Spink or your area dentist can give you a list of specific instructions on caring for your dentures to make sure they last you as long as possible.
Don’t Forget about Gum Disease
Whether or not you have all of your real teeth, gum disease remains a serious issue among older adults. However, while it is common, gum disease isn’t an inevitable part of getting older. Maintaining good dental hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly can help you prevent it, identify it and treat it quickly.
Dental Care for Seniors in Birmingham, AL
A healthy smile is beautiful at any age. Keeping up with good hygiene habits, visiting your dentist for routine check-ups and making changes to your routine as your body needs them will help you keep your smile healthy for years to come. No matter your age, if you’re in the Birmingham, AL area and need routine or cosmetic dental care, call (205) 235-5043 or schedule online to see Dr. Spink today.