9 Tips for Elderly Dental Care
1. Visit the Dentist
Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for senior dental health. This can be one of the most important things you can do for your oral health. Your dentist can help assess your overall health and give you tips on getting and keeping your mouth healthy. Issues can be diagnosed early on before they become a serious health problem for you.
2. Brush Daily
We recommend everyone brush their teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Some patients may need to brush their teeth between meals. Many dentists recommend electric toothbrushes to improve brushing techniques. Whether you choose electric or not, be sure to change your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three months. You should use a toothpaste that is dentist recommended and contains fluoride. Remember to brush for a full two minutes each time.
3. Floss Regularly
Flossing is a very important part of oral healthcare because even with the best brushing, you must clean in between your teeth, where gum disease and tooth decay often begin. If you have bridges or other restorations in your mouth flossing can be a bit more difficult. Your dental hygienist will go over the best tools and techniques for you!
4. Use Mouthwash
Using an antiseptic or antibacterial mouthwash one to two times daily is an excellent way to supplement your brushing and flossing routine.
5. Take Care of Your Dentures, Mouthguard, and/or Oral Appliances
Your dentist will give you very specific instructions on how to properly care for your dentures and other appliances and it is important that you follow this advice. If your dentures give you pain, discomfort, or other troubles, it is important to see your dentist so he/she can look into the issue. Even with no natural teeth remaining, it is recommended that seniors who use dentures have regular check-ins, at least once a year, with their dentist.
6. Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco can cause serious problems for your overall health and your oral health. Stained teeth are a common side effect of tobacco use. Chewing tobacco can cause tooth decay and all forms of tobacco are associated with throat and mouth cancer, heart disease, and other serious and life-threatening problems. If you use tobacco your dentist can help you develop a plan for cessation. It’s never too late to quit!
7. Consume Less Sugar
Eating sugary foods and drinking sugary drinks can lead to cavities and cause tooth decay and gum disease. 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 immediately afterward.
8. Hydrate Often
Many medications can cause dry mouth which can lead to enamel erosion. To avoid dry mouth you can ask your doctor to switch your medications if necessary, or you can increase your water intake. Drinking plenty of water every day is essential to all areas of your health.
9. Keep in Touch!
Take your dental health seriously and call your dentist if you have any pain, discomfort. or tooth loss. Early detection and treatment of dental problems can go a long way in preventing further complications for your dental health as well as your overall health and wellbeing.
If you have questions about dental health for seniors, get in touch with the Coccaro Dental team today. We want you to be proud of your smile and maintain the best possible oral health.
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