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Maintaining Dental Hygiene: Tips For Seniors
Dental hygiene is vital at any age. As we get older, diligent dental care becomes more vital to keep functioning and health. If the habits of oral hygiene are not maintained then the chance of developing cavities or gum disease as well as tooth loss rises. Seniors suffering from health issues, like heart disease or diabetes should be extra vigilant regarding their dental health since they are more at likelihood of suffering from certain oral illnesses. Follow these easy steps to ensure your mouth stays healthy as you get older.
Maintain a Thorough Daily Hygiene Routine
Regularly brushing and flossing can eliminate plaque, which is a sticky film that is composed of bacteria. If plaque remains on teeth for longer than two weeks, it begins to harden and turns into tartar. Toothbrushes are not able to remove tartar, only dental instruments that are professional are able to do so. The buildup of tartar and plaque contribute to gum disease as well as cavities.
Ideally, people should brush their teeth using the fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. It is recommended to brush your teeth after breakfast and before go to bed at the end of the day. Flossing can be as crucial in the same way as cleaning your teeth, and is not something to be ignored. A toothbrush only covers approximately 60% of surface of the teeth. Flossing can be able to reach the rest within the dental tooth. If it is difficult to floss, consider using floss picks as well as a flosser made of water.
Look Out for Changes
As we get older, the chance for developing cancer of the mouth as well as other dental illnesses is increasing. Any changes to the soft tissue or the function within the dental cavity need to be examined by a physician or dental specialist.
If you are experiencing one of these symptoms consistently for more than two weeks, arrange an appointment immediately with us. you can:
A swollen spot on the mouth, lip or the throat The throat, lip, or mouth
A bump or raised area within mouth cavity A lump or raised area in the oral cavity
A red or white patch on the soft tissue of the mouth. A red or white patch on the oral soft tissue
Issues with chewing or swallowing or shifting your jaw The jaw can be a problem when chewing, swallowing, or moving it
A feeling of numbness in the mouth also known as tongue The tongue is numb.
The jaw is swelling area Swelling in the jaw area
Unusual ear pain (without any hearing loss)
Do Not Ignore Dry Mouth
Xerostomia, also called dry mouth, refers to the fact that people aren’t making enough saliva that keeps their mouth adequately moist. Insufficient moisture could cause problems with eating, swallowing, or speaking. Dry mouth can also cause tooth decay, as well as other oral infections.
Dry mouth isn’t an actual condition but it is a sign of a deeper medical issue or an consequence of a drug. People with diabetes and those receiving radiation therapy or chemotherapy frequently experience dry mouth. We suggest you contact us as well as your doctor in case you suffer from dry mouth that is persistent and difficult to identify the cause.
Practice Tooth-Healthy Habits
Habits that are daily practice play a crucial contribution to keeping the healthy mouth. Making healthy choices for your teeth can assist seniors in maintaining their healthy and functional smile.
Eat foods that are beneficial for oral health. The crunchiness of fruits and vegetables provides essential nutrients for oral health and may even help reduce plaque buildup. Dairy products are frequently suggested for older people due to their richness in calcium, which helps to maintain healthy bones and teeth.
Reduce the consumption of sweet drinks and foods. It’s fine to eat sweets, but it is advised to consume at a time during times when the flow of saliva is peak.
Do not smoke or use any other product containing tobacco. Smoking tobacco puts people at a greater risk of gum cancer and oral cancer.
Drink alcohol only in moderate amounts. A heavy drinker increases the chance of developing dental tooth decay, cancer of the teeth as well as gum diseases.
See Your Dental Provider Regularly
As a general rule patients should visit the dentist no less than two times each year for check-ups along with professional cleans. These appointments provide your dentist an opportunity to eliminate tartar build-up and to address any dental issues. But, certain patients might require additional care. In your next appointment about how often we would recommend that you visit the dentist.
Oral health is crucial at every stage of life. If you are worried regarding taking care of your smile, tell us during your next appointment. We will suggest strategies to maintain your smile top shape.
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