5 Dental Care Tips for Seniors

Dental care is essential in every stage of your life, including your golden years. Seniors ought to pay more attention to their oral hygiene than before and the condition of their gums and teeth every day. People over the age of 60 are prone to an array of dental issues such as tooth decay, tooth loss, bad breath, root decay, and darkened teeth. Besides, your dental health goes beyond your teeth and gums. Health experts reveal that poor oral hygiene in the old people results in other medical conditions such as diabetes, lung disorders, coronary artery disease, heart disease, and strokes.

Brush gently and often

Most people no longer work or drop kids to school every day when they get into their 60s. Most people retire at this age; thus, they overlook their wellness and health. Your teeth and gums become more prone to wear and tear as you age. Therefore, you need to pay close attention to brushing. Seek dental care from reputable dental clinics in Meridian, such as Scott W. Grant, DMD, to ensure that your oral health is in good shape. Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice daily. Also, do not forget to brush gently because brushing harshly and using abrasive toothpaste wear down teeth enamel.

You should still floss every day

Flossing is a simple habit, but most people ignore it. It is essential for seniors because it gets rid of debris, small food particles, and bacteria in between the teeth. The best part is that you can floss in less than one minute. Seniors ought to make flossing part of their daily routine to maintain a healthy mouth as well as their overall body wellness.

Use mouthwash carefully

Seniors who are used to using mouthwash several times a day might have to adjust the practice. Mouthwash is an excellent way of preventing cavities and the buildup of plaque in the mouth. However, it tampers with the pH balance and a significant contributor of dry mouth. Seniors should use alcohol-free mouthwash to protect their mouth. They should not overuse mouthwash.

Keep removable dentures clean when you wear them

Several seniors opt for dental implants or removable dentures when they lose their teeth as they age. They should clean their removable dentures every day. Failure to wash them daily encourages bacteria or debris buildup, which get into contact with your gums, increasing the chances of contracting gum diseases. Seniors should also clean the dentures even if they already have gum disease to prevent it from accelerating into an advanced stage known as periodontal disease.

Stay hydrated

Most seniors avoid drinking several glasses of water in a day because they avoid using the bathroom. While it is understandable to avoid using the bathroom often, staying hydrated is vital for their health, especially their dental health. Seniors should also talk to their doctors to avoid medications that cause dry mouth.

It is not too late to take care of your dental health. The dental care tips will help you or your loved one maintain proper oral hygiene at an old age. Do not forget the importance of regular dental visits.