As you age, it is natural for your oral and dental health needs to change. A family dentist in Airdrie, Bayside Dental & Orthodontics, helps many older adults enjoy good dental health. While older adults do tend to be more susceptible to developing tooth decay and gum disease, there are many steps you can take to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Here are our top oral care tips for older adults.
Focus on Improving Your Oral Hygiene Habits
If there’s room for improvement in your oral hygiene habits, then don’t wait to work on them. Ideally, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once every 24 hours. This will help keep plaque bacteria from building up on your teeth and gums.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Dentists generally recommend that people of all ages use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damage to their tooth enamel, as hard bristles can be too abrasive. This is particularly important for older adults, whose enamel tends to be thinner.
Drink Plenty of Water
One of the main reasons why older adults are more susceptible to oral health conditions is that they have more problems with dry mouth, often as a result of taking certain medications. Keeping your mouth moist by drinking more water can help wash away plaque bacteria.
Increase Your Fluoride Use
If you don’t already use a fluoride toothpaste, then you should make the switch. Fluoride helps to build strong tooth enamel and inhibit the action of plaque bacteria. Incorporating a fluoride rinse into your daily routine is a good idea as well. Ask your Airdrie dentist if they have any recommendations for toothpaste and rinses that might be best for your needs.
Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet
What you eat has a significant impact on the health of your teeth and gums. Try to limit your intake of sugary, sticky, and starchy foods that can encourage the proliferation of plaque bacteria. Focus on eating a balanced diet with more fibrous vegetables and protein-rich foods. A better diet is great for your overall health as well.
Note Any Changes in Your Mouth
Older adults are at a greater risk of developing oral cancer, so ask your dentist about any sudden changes in your mouth. Regularly inspect the inside of your mouth for sore spots, lumps, and discoloured patches, and make sure to get them checked out.
Visit Your Airdrie Dentist as Often as Recommended
Some older adults may need to start visiting their dentist more often, while others may be fine going as often as they always have. Listen to your dentist’s recommendation and visit your dental clinic for a comprehensive oral exam and evaluation as regularly as needed. This will allow your Airdrie dentist to keep tabs on your oral health and catch signs of any oral health issues early on.
At Bayside Dental & Orthodontics, our dentists can help every member of the family maintain a healthy smile. To book an appointment for an oral health checkup at our Airdrie clinic, just contact us today.
