Getting older means considering our health more and more. While we should have been practicing good dental habits all along – if you haven’t – now is an excellent time to begin. As you age, your teeth become weaker and your gums begin to recede, exposing vulnerable areas in your mouth that can get infected. These infections can lead to tooth and bone loss. At Premier Dental Center Universal City, we are passionate about helping seniors over the age of 55 care for their teeth.
Dental Care for People Over the Age of 55
Know Your Needs
Not everyone has the mobility needed for a good dental routine. Issues like arthritis can make brushing and flossing particularly difficult. In addition, you may suffer from other mobility issues. To help with this, we recommend buying an electric toothbrush with soft bristles and a water pick/flosser. This eliminates the need to rotate your wrists or move too much. You can also get a cup of water and perform your daily dental routine from anywhere, without needing to head to the bathroom.
Minerals and Nutrients
As children, you most likely used fluoride toothpaste. As we age, this essential mineral is even more important. Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel, bolster your gum health, and keep your teeth strong as you age. Ensuring that your toothpaste and mouthwash contain fluoride may just be the difference between a healthy mouth and tooth loss.
Another nutrient you need to make sure to add to your diet is calcium. Seniors over 55 are at a high risk of developing osteoporosis, a bone-weakening disease that can affect teeth and jawbones. Doctors recommend taking calcium supplements to help prevent bone loss. Add magnesium for the added absorption of this essential nutrient.
Add Mouthwash
Early stages of gum disease are not only preventable, but they can be reversible! If you have recently been diagnosed with gum disease, you may still have an opportunity to turn things around – even as a senior over 55. You can help protect yourself by adding mouthwash (specifically one with fluoride) to your daily routine. Antimicrobial ingredients in mouthwash help kill bacteria that cause devastating tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum disease. Even using mouthwash at least once per day can have added benefits.
Hydrate to Prevent Dry Mouth
Water has numerous benefits for our bodies, but one of the best ones is for our mouths! In addition to brushing and flossing, drinking your weight in ounces of water every day can help prevent dry mouth. ‘Dry mouth’ is a side effect of many common medications, and it can have disastrous effects on your teeth and gums. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially after meals, and rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash after you brush your teeth.
Get Regular Cleanings and Exams
One of the most important tips for senior dental health is to go to the dentist! Many people over the age of 55 will need extensive dental treatment, but those who regularly see their dentist will have healthier teeth and gums and need less intervention. In addition, a dentist will perform routine oral cancer screenings to help catch this disease early.
During your dental check-up, the dental hygienist will also take special care to remove the hardened plaque and tartar that may be causing issues.
Dental Health Care for Seniors in Universal City
At Premier Dental Center Universal City, we provide exceptional dental care for seniors. Start by scheduling a routine dental cleaning. New patients can be seen for just $59 (including the exam, cleaning, and x-rays). The best time to care for your health is now. Let us help.