As we age, many things change, but many things also remain the same. The way we practice dental care is no exception to this. Caring for our teeth and gums is important as we age because they can become more vulnerable to increased problems developing. Let’s discuss what dental care for seniors looks like both at home and in the dentist’s chair.
Brush and Floss
One thing that remains the same about dental care for seniors is that it’s always important to brush after each meal and floss daily to maintain good dental hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly will help to remove food debris, bacteria and plaque before it can cause tooth decay or gum disease. Good dental hygiene will also help to promote brightness and reduce dental stains from developing.
Implants and Dentures
The likelihood of having implants or dentures increases as we age. Caring for implants looks much the same as caring for natural teeth, but denture care can be a bit different to get used to. With dentures, it’s recommended that you brush them daily as you would teeth, and it’s also important to remove them nightly to protect your mouth from developing sores and so that you can soak the dentures in a cleaning solution.
Conditions and Diseases Related to Aging
There are also some common conditions and diseases related to aging that affect dental health. One of these conditions is xerostomia or dry mouth. Dry mouth often affects seniors because they are more likely to be prescribed medications with side effects that include reduced saliva flow. Dry mouth can become a serious issue if unaddressed because saliva is your body’s natural method of protecting your teeth. Reduced saliva flow inhibits that natural defense system and puts your teeth at greater risk of decay.
Other common conditions relating to aging can be those that affect the gums such as periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, or gum recession due to gum disease or simple hormonal changes. Effects of these gum conditions can range from exposed roots of the teeth, root caries and tooth loss.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Because the risk for certain conditions and diseases increases with age, it’s especially important to visit a dentist regularly for exams and thorough cleanings. Routine dental visits help prevent potential issues and ensure that any concerns are caught early, when they’re easiest to treat.
It’s also helpful to see a dentist who understands the specific needs that can come with aging. While many people may need services like implants, dentures, or gum care, a dentist with experience in treating older adults will be more familiar with these concerns. That experience can make a real difference when it comes to recognizing issues early and providing care that’s both effective and comfortable.
When choosing a dental provider, it’s important to feel confident that your dentist is knowledgeable and prepared to address your individual needs. Many older adults prefer working with a dentist who has a deeper understanding of the changes that can happen in the mouth over time—from dry mouth and worn teeth to more complex restorative needs.
Call us to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.
