Seniors and toddlers alike should maintain good dental hygiene practices and routines irrespective of the age. You could encounter many issues relating to your dental health as you become older. However, your dentist can assist in preventing the impacts of ageing on your overall oral health. While it's possible for oral health to decline with age, getting regular checkups done allows the dentist to promptly spot, treat, and possibly prevent the issue before it actually gets worse. Because of this, you should never underestimate the significance of the need for oral care for senior people.

Common Dental Issues Seniors Face

Older people are more vulnerable to problems with their dental health. Some of these could include the following as:

• Sensitive teeth - Sensitivity is a dental condition linked to ageing. Gum recession can result in the tooth root being exposed, which in turn produces painful teeth. A toothpaste with anti-sensitivity properties may assist with the symptoms. However, if the issue continues, it can be a sign of something worse, such a shattered tooth or cavity. Remember to call your dentist and make an appointment depending on the severity of the issue.

• Thrush - Candida albicans can overgrow in the mouth as a result of certain medical conditions or drugs, a condition known as thrush.

• Gum Disease: Gum disease can develop in older people for a number of reasons. Plaque, continued cigarette use, poor food, certain medical disorders (such as anaemia, diabetes, and cancer), and ill-fitting dentures and bridges are a few of these.

• Denture-Induced Stomatitis - Inflammation of the tissue under the denture can be brought on by ill-fitting dentures, a buildup of Candida albicans, and poor dental hygiene.

• Teeth that have darkened - Dentin changes and years of consuming foods and drinks that cause stains can cause teeth to become discoloured. Dentin, which is darker and yellower, can be seen through eroded enamel. If you notice that your teeth have discoloured, it can be a sign of a more serious issue that calls for a professional dental examination.

• Root decay - This is a dental condition that typically arises when the gum line begins to recede and exposes the tooth root. The roots become more vulnerable to germs and decay because they lack enamel to shield them from acid that causes decay.

• Uneven Jawbone - If you don't replace your missing teeth, the other teeth will shift into wide spacing, which will result in an uneven jawbone.

• Tooth Loss - Untreated gum disease might make tooth loss more likely as you age.

• Dry mouth - In addition to getting older, dry mouth can also be brought on by some drugs and long-term denture wear.

Dental Care Advice for Seniors for Maintaining a Healthy Mouth, Teeth, and Gums

Ageing people have a greater need to take appropriate care of their dental health. You may not necessarily have to face age-related dental health problems in the future just because you are prone to them. Several common sense dental procedures are necessary to maintain the health of your mouth, gums, and teeth.

For elders to maintain excellent dental health, they should consider the following advice:

• Fluoridation - This should be increased because it helps to protect the enamel and strengthen teeth. Seniors who are susceptible to tooth decay are advised by dental practitioners to switch to fluoride-containing toothpaste or add a fluoride rinse to their regular oral hygiene regimen.

• Daily Flossing and Brushing of your Teeth - Be sure to clean your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes using fluoride-containing toothpaste. In order to get trapped food off your teeth, floss there. Do this as often as required, preferably once daily. Elderly people without teeth can practise good oral hygiene by carefully removing plaque from the gum's surface with a soft, clean cloth.

• Increase Your Water Intake - Drinking more water helps to prevent tooth decay. Along with washing away sugar and bacteria, water also balances the acid in your mouth. Sports drinks, sodas, and juices with a high sugar content should be avoided. These sweet beverages can raise your mouth's acidity level, which destroys the enamel of your teeth and can also lead to dental caries and finally, loss of teeth.

• Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash - To get rid of bad bacteria and stop plaque buildup, rinse your mouth out with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing or flossing your teeth.

• Reduce the amount of sugar you eat/drink - It's best to keep away from sodas, sports drinks, candies, dried fruits that have been preserved, and starchy foods. To remove the sugar, remember to brush your teeth or swish some water around in your mouth.

• Steer Clear of Tobacco Products - Smoking and other tobacco products can raise your chances of throat and mouth, heart disease, and other major health issues. Additionally, chewing tobacco might cause tooth decay.

• Know Your Recommended Calcium Levels- As you age, calcium helps to maintain the health of your teeth. To reduce their risk of osteoporosis, a disease that significantly affects the bone that surrounds the teeth, dental practitioners advise older persons to consume 1,000 milligrammes of calcium daily from low-fat dairy products.

• Be Aware of Any Medication that has Dental Side Effects - Some drugs may lead to oral health problems, like dry mouth. Even while dry mouth is a frequent dental issue, it can be bad for your overall oral health since it makes it easier for plaque to stick to the surface of your teeth, which raises your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Keep track of any changes in your oral health if you take medication. If you notice any new oral issues, make an appointment with your dentist right away.

• Appropriate Denture Maintenance - For older persons who are missing teeth, dentures provide a long-term alternative. However, they need particular attention. Follow your dentist's instructions carefully, and let him or her know right away if you have any issues. Make an annual appointment with your denturist to ensure that your dentures are in excellent shape and precisely fit your mouth.

• Consult Your Dentist Periodically - People who wear dentures should go to the dentist every six months to have their mouth, teeth, and gums examined and to stay on top of any potential oral health problems.

You may maintain a healthy, radiant smile at any age by practising good oral hygiene, seeing the dentist frequently, and leading a healthy lifestyle. Working together with your dependable dentist may help you comprehend the risks associated with ageing and lower the possibility of dental health issues, allowing you to maintain excellent oral health for the rest of your life.

Visit Garden Family Dental if you're on the lookout for a dentist that actually cares about the oral health of your elderly family members. At every stage of your life, our team of skilled dentists offers thorough dental examinations and preventative treatment to help you feel and look your best. Call us immediately to schedule an appointment or for a consultation at 714- 638-9370.