As you get older, your body will inevitably go through some changes. Whether it’s your eyesight, hearing, or anything else, you may find yourself at a higher risk of certain conditions. The same goes for your smile, as you might be more prone to dental problems. In order to make sure your smile stays in great shape, here’s what you need to know and tips to make sure your grin is strong and healthy.
What Oral Health Issues Are Older Adults at a Higher Risk Of?
Like it was mentioned above, many people tend to be at a greater risk of oral issues when they get older. These are some common ones to be aware of:
- Cavities: If your gums have receded over time, then plaque can more easily accumulate on your tooth roots and cause decay.
- Gum Disease: The soft tissues in your mouth can become infected by bacteria. When you get older, this condition can become a bigger problem because it has links to things like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Dry Mouth: With aging, you may not have adequate saliva flow, so bacteria may linger for longer and settle on your teeth and gums, increasing your risk of the two things above and bad breath.
How Can I Protect My Smile as an Older Adult?
With all that said, being an older adult may mean you are more prone to oral health issues, but that doesn’t mean you will definitely get them. You can do your part in preventing them by following these simple tips:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste for two minutes. Consider getting an electric one, as they can be easier to hold and use.
- Floss every day to get plaque into places that the habit above can’t reach.
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to further reduce your chances of dental problems.
- Stick to your primary care physician’s recommendations. Take any medications as directed and ask them for further tips on what you can do to prevent health conditions from leading to oral issues.
- Don’t forget to visit your dentist. By having checkups and cleanings twice annually, they will be able to monitor any changes to your smile. If there is anything worrying that popped up, then you can get it treated and get toward the stronger grin you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Tracy Jenkins earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He is happy to help the Idaho Falls get the healthier teeth and gums they deserve with preventive care. By tailoring your dental care, you can get the effective solution you need for any red flags. If you want to make sure that your smile is in great shape, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Jenkins’ office at (208) 522-8061.