Dental Care for Seniors May 20, 2025

Keep your smile healthy and strong as you age

D

Dental Services

Contributing Author

Keep your smile healthy and strong as you age

Regular dental check-ups

  • Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
  • Regular check-ups can catch any potential issues early on and prevent them from turning into bigger problems.
  • Your dentist can also provide advice on how to improve your dental hygiene routine.

Brushing and flossing regularly

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
  • Proper oral hygiene can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Eating a healthy diet

  • Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay.
  • Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet for their nutritional benefits.
  • Choose foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D to help maintain strong teeth and bones.

Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption

  • Both tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can have negative effects on your dental health.
  • Tobacco use can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Avoiding these habits can help keep your smile healthy and strong.

Using mouthguards

  • If you participate in sports or other physical activities, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.
  • Mouthguards can help prevent tooth fractures, lip injuries, and other dental emergencies.
  • There are different types of mouthguards available, including custom-made ones that provide the best fit and protection.

Managing dry mouth

  • As you age, you may experience dry mouth due to certain medications or medical conditions.
  • Drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
  • Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dry mouth.
  • Your dentist may recommend artificial saliva products or other treatments to help manage dry mouth.

Addressing dental issues promptly

  • If you experience any dental pain, sensitivity, or other issues, don't ignore them.
  • Seek prompt dental care to prevent the problem from worsening.
  • Early intervention can often save your natural teeth and prevent more expensive and invasive treatments.

Considering dental insurance or discount plans

  • As you age, the cost of dental care may become a concern.
  • Consider obtaining dental insurance or looking into dental discount plans to help manage the costs.
  • These options can provide coverage or discounts for routine check-ups, cleanings, and other dental treatments.

Practicing good oral hygiene habits

  • In addition to brushing and flossing, there are other habits that can contribute to good dental health.
  • Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite into hard objects.
  • Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from your tongue.
  • Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria in your mouth.

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