Maintaining Oral Health in Older Age: Tips for Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums
As we age, it's important to take good care of our teeth and gums to maintain overall oral health and avoid serious dental issues. Here are some tips for taking care of your teeth as you get older:
Brush twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is essential for removing plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes each time.
Floss daily: Flossing daily is also essential for removing plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. This can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Use mouthwash: Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Get regular check-ups: Regular dental check-ups can help detect any problems early on and prevent serious issues from developing. If you're over 65, you may be eligible for a free NHS dentist to give you a check-up.
Limit sugar and acidic foods: Foods high in sugar and acid can cause tooth decay, so it's important to limit your intake of these foods. Instead, opt for a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Don't smoke or use tobacco: Smoking and using tobacco can cause a variety of serious oral health problems, including tooth loss, oral cancer, and gum disease.
Keep your dentures clean: If you wear dentures, it's important to keep them clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus. Soak them overnight in a cleaning solution and brush them daily.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth hydrated and flush away harmful bacteria.
By following these tips and taking good care of your teeth and gums, you can help maintain your oral health and avoid serious dental issues as you age.
Be mindful of medications: Certain medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If you're taking medications that cause dry mouth, talk to your dentist about ways to combat this side effect.
Exercise caution when using toothpicks: As we age, our gums can recede, leaving the roots of our teeth exposed. Using toothpicks can cause damage to these exposed roots and lead to tooth sensitivity or even tooth loss. If you have receding gums, talk to your dentist about the best way to clean between your teeth.
Consider dental implants: As we age, we may lose teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. Dental implants can be a great solution for replacing missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth and can help preserve your jawbone.
Don't neglect your gums: As we age, our gums can become more susceptible to disease, so it's important to pay special attention to them when you brush and floss. Gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush and use an antiseptic mouthwash to help keep them healthy.
Keep an eye out for oral cancer: Oral cancer is more common in older adults, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, such as sores that don't heal, unexplained bleeding in the mouth, and lumps or thickening in the mouth or on the lips. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your dentist right away.
It is also worth noting that as we age, our mouth can change and it is important to keep an open line of communication with our dentist and hygienist. They can advise on how best to care for our teeth and gums as we age.
Remember that good oral health is linked to good overall health, so taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of taking care of your overall health as you age.
