In every stage of life, maintaining a healthy oral regimen is crucial for good health. As we age, it is important to stay on top of our oral health care to ensure we continue to live happy and healthy lives. To avoid major health concerns, it is important that seniors follow a strict regimen of tooth and mouth care. But don’t worry, we have a few tips to get you started!
Tip #1: Brush Daily
Brushing twice a day should be a well-established routine for many seniors and is important to maintaining good oral health. Many dentists recommend electric toothbrushes to improve brushing techniques. Whether you opt for electric or not, it is important to use the bristle strength that’s right for you. Most dentists will recommend soft toothbrushes for seniors, but for those with certain gum conditions, your dentist may recommend hard bristles.
Tip #2: Floss Daily
With daily flossing, seniors can improve their dental health outcomes and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Flossing is a quick and easy way to take care of your teeth, and the benefits of regular flossing far outweigh any inconvenience.
Tip #3: Consume Less Sugar
Ingesting sugary foods and drinks can lead to cavities and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Monitoring your sugar intake makes maintaining healthy oral hygiene much easier. If you do eat a sugary dessert or have a sweet tea or soda as an occasional treat, just be sure to brush your teeth afterward to avoid risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Tip #4: Avoid Tobacco
Tobacco is destructive to the human body having detrimental effects on your physical health. Your oral health is no different. Chewing tobacco in particular can cause tooth decay and even irreversible damage to your mouth’s oral health. Not only can it cause oral cancer, but it can severely destroy the lining of the gums. If oral cancer or gum recession from tobacco use is a concern of yours, make sure you schedule an appointment with a top of the line periodontist to help. Remember, it’s never too late to quit!
Tip #5: Visit Your Dentist and Periodontist Regularly
Regularly scheduled visits to the dentist are crucial for senior dental health. Infrequent visits, or no visits at all, allows time for problems to worsen and become more severe. Seniors should make appointments for cleanings at least twice a year or as directed by their dentist. Scheduling a screening for oral cancer and seeking the advice of specialized dental providers, like the periodontists at Elkhart Periodontics and Dental Implants, will help keep your oral health on the right track as you age.
Senior Dental Care at Elkhart Periodontics and Dental Implants
Scheduling appointments regularly with dental professionals is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health. Our experts at Elkhart Periodontics and Dental Implants ensure you receive the right kind of care for your teeth. They have the training, technology, and tools to detect and diagnose oral conditions early before they become a serious problem for your health.
