5 Tips for Taking Care of Your Teeth as You Get Older

There are many things that get better with age, like wine, cheese, and you! Unfortunately, of those many things, your teeth aren’t one of them. They can be easy to ignore when you’re younger, but over time you may notice that they need more taking care of. Luckily, you can do this by making a few simple changes to your dental hygiene regimen. By just adjusting your habits slightly, you can make sure your teeth stay pearly and white, even into your golden years. Here are 5 quick tips for keeping your teeth healthy as you age.

Invest in a Pair of Dentures

You may balk at the thought of dentures given the stereotypes attached to them. For some, however, they can be incredibly useful. Modern dentures can also look incredibly realistic, and are custom fitted to make them as comfortable as possible. Dentures are essentially synthetic teeth which attach to your gums to cover missing or damaged teeth. They can improve your smile from a cosmetic perspective, and using them while eating will also protect the rest of your teeth from further damage.

What are dentures made of? In fact, there are a variety of materials to choose from, although the plates are most commonly made from either metal, acrylic resin, or polymers. Acrylic plates look the most realistic, as they can be coloured to match your own gums, whereas metal ones are generally more durable. The teeth are then usually made of acrylic resin again, or porcelain.  Discuss with your dentist to find the most suitable option for you.

See Your Dentist More Regularly

Nobody likes visiting the dentist, but unfortunately, as we age, it becomes a necessity. You should aim to get a check-up at least once, and preferably twice a year.  This is because dentists can identify problems and treat them early, before they worsen. Emergency procedures can cost substantially more than routine treatments, too, so catching anything early could save you both a lot of money and potential discomfort. They can also advise you on the best habits for your teeth, specifically. Many insurance providers will also cover multiple check-ups within a year, so visiting with more regularity may not actually cost any more than what you’re already paying.

Use Mouthwash Regularly

When taking care of your oral hygiene, it’s important to remember that your gums are important to keep healthy as well as your teeth. The easiest and most effective way to look after them is by using mouthwash regularly. While also combating common tooth problems such as gingivitis and plaque build-up, mouthwash is also known to reduce your risk of gum disease, too. Of course, it will make your breath smell wonderfully fresh, as well! You should make sure the mouthwash you choose is approved by a dental organisation, though, as some are sold purely for cosmetic purposes.

You should be cautious about overusing mouthwash, however. This is because many older adults suffer from a condition known as dry mouth. This is caused by your mouth not producing enough saliva, which can in turn lead to difficulties speaking, eating and using dentures. Using too much mouthwash can exacerbate these side-effects, even if you are not yet aware you have this condition. If you do suffer from dry mouth, you may want to consult with your dentist about which mouthwash is best for you.

Use a Fluoride Toothpaste

A reason many older adults end up losing their teeth as they age is tooth decay. This problem is so widespread that many people think losing teeth as they get older is natural. This is, in actuality, far from the truth. To prevent the adverse effects associated with tooth decay, always make sure you use a toothpaste containing fluoride. Despite dubious claims about its other properties, fluoride is one of the most important chemicals for oral healthcare. This is because it fights the germs which cause tooth decay, and also protects your teeth from any other harmful substances.

Adjust Your Diet

Naturally, diet and nutrition are a major factor in the welfare of your teeth. Younger people may not notice the effects their eating and drinking habits have on their oral health, but it is likely that as you age will recognise this more. To make sure you are not negatively affecting your teeth with your diet, you may want to slightly modify it. Obviously, sugar is harmful to your teeth and should be limited, but this is not the only change you can make. Drinking plenty of water is great for keeping your mouth clean, and removing any acids or food that sticks in your teeth after eating. Crunchy foods, like carrots and apples, are also effective at scraping off any bacteria left on your teeth.