Your teeth and gums need a little extra TLC as you age. But it’s possible to keep them healthy well into old age. Here are some tips to help you do so.
Keep Up with Routine Care
This one may be a no-brainer, but it’s worth spelling out. As you age, it’s important that you keep up with your oral care routine. That means brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year for your cleaning and exam.
Go for Gadgets
There’s some pretty great technology available that can help those with arthritis and limited mobility brush and floss their teeth. First off, electric toothbrushes can be a great tool. The spinning head does most of the work for you, you simply need to guide it. And there are models out there with features to make sure you’re brushing correctly, and to make your life easier: pressure sensors, built in timer, and subscription services for brush head delivery. Having trouble flossing? Try a water flosser. This device uses a pressurized stream of water to clean between the teeth. It’s a user friendly option for those who struggle to maneuver dental floss throughout the mouth.
Beware of Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is common in seniors, especially because it’s a common symptom of a long list of different medications often prescribed to older adults. If you have dry mouth, the lack of saliva leaves you at increased risk for decay. There may be no way to eradicate dry mouth without changing your medications, but there are some things you can do to help the problem. Drink lots of water, suck on sugar free candies or chew sugar free gum, and make an effort to breathe through your nose rather than your mouth whenever possible.
Come See Us at Prairie Dental Group
We’re happy to accept patients of all ages. When you visit our office, we’ll help you target and address the signs of wear and tear on your smile, preserving its luster for years to come.
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