Even as we grow older, we should continue to take our oral health and hygiene routine seriously. Dental care for older adults should not be brushed aside if you or your loved ones want to maintain healthy teeth and have a good quality of life. Dental conditions such as tooth decay and gum diseases can all be kept at bay with the right tooth and mouth care regimen. Maintain healthy teeth today with these 8 tips!
Hydrate Regularly
The most basic step that many people tend to overlook is the need to keep themselves well hydrated. This is especially crucial if they are taking medications that can result in a dry mouth, which can lead to enamel erosion. How much water you need daily depends on factors like body weight, energy output, and your living environment. However, drinking eight glasses of water a day is a safe bet.
Brush Daily
To keep your teeth healthy as you age, brush your teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. Every brushing cycle should take about two minutes. Brushing in-between meals is also recommended. You or your loved one should change your toothbrush at least every three months. At the same time, you should choose a soft-bristled toothbrush as it is the safest and most comfortable for your teeth and gums. If you are using dentures, mouth guards or other oral applications, remember to take good care of them too!
Floss Daily
To further protect your teeth, you should also floss daily. Flossing can greatly reduce the risk of cavities and gum diseases. If you don’t have a habit of flossing, you should start now! Flossing can be done quickly and easily, and it goes a long way in helping to prevent tooth decay.
Rinse with Mouthwash
To supplement your daily brushing and flossing regimen, you can use an antiseptic or antibacterial mouthwash one to two times every day. Why is mouthwash beneficial? Here are four simple reasons: sodium fluoride in mouthwash can reduce tooth decay, reduce gum inflammation by eliminating bacteria, prevent gum disease, and kill the bacteria in your mouth that cannot be reached by brushing and flossing.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco consumption has negative impacts on both your body and your oral health. A common side effect of tobacco use is stained yellow teeth. Other consequences of tobacco include tooth decay, throat and mouth cancer, and heart disease. You may also be at risk of other serious and life-threatening medical conditions related to tobacco use.
Consume Less Sugar
You should try to cut down on sugary foods and beverages as they can lead to cavities, tooth decay and gum diseases. If you do indulge in a dessert or soda, simply brush your teeth immediately afterward.
Take Calcium Supplements
Taking calcium supplements will do wonders for our teeth. Calcium helps to reduce the risks and severity of osteoporosis, which affects your gums and causes periodontal diseases. Osteoporosis can also reduce the bone density in our jaws and teeth, leading to loss of teeth.
Schedule Regular Dentist Visits
You and your loved ones should schedule regular visits to your dentist to maintain the condition of your teeth. By visiting the dentist at least twice every year, you will be able to deal with any oral health issues in a timely manner.
