We’re not getting any younger! How many times have you heard this lament? It’s true, nobody’s growing young, but thanks to medical and technological advancements, people are living longer than ever. Of course, it means taking better care of your health, including your oral health.
Like every other aspect of your healthcare, seniors need to approach oral health in a slightly different way. It might mean switching up your regular oral care routine to include some new steps or products. Or, it could mean addressing some dental issues you put off for too long.
How To Take Care Of Your Teeth As You Age
Okay, so our teeth change as we age, but what actually happens to them? First, think about what 60, 70, or 80 years of wear and tear has done to the rest of the body, then apply that to the teeth. Three square meals per day (plus snacks?) can certainly take a toll on teeth.
Beyond the general wear and tear, we develop a range of conditions with age that weaken the enamel and dentin. Maybe you overcame cancer or developed a chronic condition that requires medication. Or, perhaps a lifetime of stress led to too much teeth grinding.
Finally, tissues and gums weaken with age, which includes your gums, teeth, and jaw. That’s right, aside from growing shorter (that’s truly a thing), our gums recede and we lose bone density.
With so many factors working against you, a solid oral care routine is more important than ever!
Brush at least twice per day. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Floss daily, at least once.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash at least once per day.
See your dentist every six months for an oral exam and professional cleaning.
Paying extra attention to your teeth and gums is extremely important for older adults. Though we can’t stop aging, we can keep our smiles healthy!
At Johnson Family Dental in Paducah we love and value or senior patients. If you are looking for a Paducah area dentist, give us a call to schedule an appointment at (270) 554-2432. Johnson Family Dental is conveniently located at 2913 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY. Our regular office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8am to 5pm. We hope to see you soon!