Tips to Prevent and Address Dental Problems in Old Age
As part of the aging process, the human body goes through a lot of wear and tear. The mouth is highly susceptible to this damage, especially after decades of chewing, gnashing, and grinding. This means you’re more likely to have oral problems during your senior years.
However, regularly visiting a reputable dental care provider like trident smiles dental clinic in Sunnyvale can help protect your oral health from the effects of aging. Your dentist can quickly identify dental issues early enough and recommend the best treatment or preventative measures before it worsens. If you’re worried about your aging teeth, here are the best ways you can prevent and address dental problems in old age:
1. Be On the Lookout for Signs of Dental Problems
Old age comes with other diseases which could require medication. Sometimes, this medication can lead to harmful side effects like dry mouth and other dental health issues. The side effects of medications can harm your oral health and even increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
If you’re on medication, ensure you’re always on the lookout for any changes in your oral health. Common symptoms include teeth discoloration, swollen or bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, receding teeth, toothache, pain while chewing, and sudden teeth sensitivity, among many others. Over time, these side effects could aggravate and become more serious dental problems that require a professional dental checkup. Inform your dentist of these effects, or if you show any sign of dental problems, so they can devise a treatment plan.
2. Visit the Dentist Every Six Months
People of all ages should have regular dental checkups. However, as you age, you become more susceptible to many oral diseases. Hence, you should regularly visit your dentist for dental checkups to ensure problems are identified and treated before they become major dental issues.
There are various things that you should expect during a dental exam. First, the dentist will verify your dental history by checking when and why you last visited the dentist. They will then perform an oral exam by checking your face, neck, bite, jaw, and other internal surfaces. The presence of lumps and swellings could be a sign of serious oral diseases that should be addressed immediately.
3. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Another great way to prevent dental problems in old age is by practicing good oral hygiene. You can do that by brushing and flossing your teeth daily using fluoride toothpaste. If you have missing teeth, consider using a clean cloth to remove plaque between the cavities. Avoid using tobacco products since they increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Avoid sugary foods like sweets since they often cause the accumulation of tartar and plaque. Instead, drink more water since it rinses bacteria and food particles, preventing tooth decay. Calcium supplements can also help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, reducing your risk of osteoporosis and boosting your oral health.
Endnote
Taking care of your teeth during your senior years can help improve your dental health and overall well-being. Besides negatively affecting your eating ability, dental problems can also affect your overall self-esteem. Besides maintaining good oral hygiene, there’s a wide range of treatment options for every dental issue.
Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups can help keep your smile healthy and glowing even in old age. If your dentist notices any dental issue during your checkups, they’ll recommend the best treatment for your specific condition.
