How should I take care of my smile as I get older?
As in younger patients, a healthy senior’s smile begins at home. You should continue to brush your teeth twice each day for two minutes each time. Daily flossing is also essential to disrupt the accumulation of plaque and tartar that exposes your teeth and gums to potentially harmful oral bacteria.
Be conscious of what you put in your mouth, as well. Limit sweet treats, which can nourish the bacteria that set up shop in your mouth, and get a variety of healthy fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, don’t use your teeth as tools, as they can break and need to be repaired by a family dentist.
Speaking of the dentist, yes, you still need to see us every six months even when you’ve passed the age of 60. It’s still important to get periodic professional cleanings by a dental hygienist to remove any plaque and tartar that may still have built up despite your diligence about your oral hygiene habits. Your family dentist will also inspect the health of your teeth and gums to check for signs of decay or periodontal disease.
Consequences Of Oral Diseases In Older Adults
Although it is possible to have a healthy smile as you get older, your risk of issues like gum disease does increase with age. Keep in mind that gum disease doesn’t only lead to devastating effects on your smile, such as tooth loss. Gum disease is also associated with a host of systemic conditions that are more likely to affect older adults, such as heart disease and diabetes. Taking care of your smile also helps you to take care of your body in general to promote your overall wellness.
If you want to keep your smile in good condition as you get older, we encourage you to come in for check-ups every six months. Call us at DeSanti & Linden Dentistry to schedule an appointment if you need to get back on track with your oral health care.