AGING & DENTAL HEALTH

As you age, your mouth changes and it becomes even more important to take good care of your teeth and dental health. Many people believe that losing your teeth is inevitable. This is not true. If you care for your teeth properly, they can last a lifetime.

The nerves in your teeth can become smaller, making your teeth less sensitive to cavities or other problems. If you don’t get regular dental exams, this in turn can lead to these problems not being diagnosed until it is too late.

Take care of your gums and help your heart

The American Heart Association published a Statement in April 2012 supporting an association between gum disease and heart disease. Many studies show an as-yet-unexplained association between gum disease and several serious health conditions, including heart disease, even after adjusting for common risk factors.

If you want to feel good, stay healthy, and look great throughout life, you might be surprised what a difference a healthy mouth makes.

Here are a few great tips for maintaining and improving your oral health:

Brush twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles. You may also benefit from using an electric toothbrush.

Clean between your teeth at least once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner.

If you wear full or partial dentures, remember to clean them on a daily basis. Take your dentures out of your mouth for at least four hours every day. It’s best to remove them at night.

Drink tap water. Since most contains fluoride, it helps prevent tooth decay no matter how old you are.

Quit smoking. Besides putting you at greater risk for lung and other cancers, smoking increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.

Visit us regularly for your dental check-ups.

Be sure to incorporate plenty of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and dairy into your diet.

By adopting these healthy oral habits at home, making smart choices about diet and lifestyle, and seeking regular dental care, you can help your teeth last a lifetime—whether you have your natural teeth, implants or wear dentures.