6 Dental Hygiene Tips for Seniors

As you age, the way you take care of yourself changes. Age related health problems can alter your lifestyle, and even something as simple as your oral health routine may need to be adjusted with time.

If you’re heading for your twilight years, here are a few important ways that you may need to alter your dental habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong for as long as possible.

See Your Dentist

While it’s always important to see the dentist at any age, it is even more so as a senior. That’s because as you age, you are at a higher risk of gum disease that could cost you your teeth and bones without treatment. Thus, be sure to attend your appointments at least twice a year, or more so if prescribed by your dentist.

Maintain Your Hygiene

Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is the easiest way to keep your teeth strong and healthy.  This can help reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease, so you’ll be able to keep your smile stronger, longer. As you age, conditions such as arthritis may make it difficult to maintain your hygiene routine. If this occurs, speak to your dentist about how you can keep up your oral health despite other medical challenges.

Replace Lost Teeth

While it may not seem like that big of a deal to replace missing teeth as you get older, failing to do so can result in bone deterioration that could cost you even more teeth and possibly portions of your jawbone. Thus, should you require any teeth be removed, speak to your dentist about your replacement options; these may include dental implants, implant dentures, dentures, or dental bridges.

Don’t Smoke

Smoking can shorten your lifespan, but it can also damage your teeth and gums. It can even cause oral cancer. If you are a smoker, do your best to quit as soon as possible; otherwise, do yourself a favor and don’t start (and avoid vaping, too!)

Take Care of Equipment

Whether you wear dentures, have crowns or implants, or you use a CPAP machine, it is important to keep all oral health equipment and prosthetics clean. This will not only extend their life for as long as possible, but it can also protect your oral health and your overall health, too. Dirty prosthetics can cause illness and gum disease, so even if you’re tired be sure you clean them properly before you head to bed.

Take a Calcium Supplement

Calcium is necessary for people of all ages, but it is especially important for seniors. As you age, you are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, which can cause you to lose bone density including jawbone density which could cost you your teeth. Taking a calcium supplement can help lower your risk and maybe even prevent this.

Remember, aging is a normal part of life, and one that should be celebrated. But in order to stay healthy as you get older, it’s important that you maintain your oral health with these helpful tips!

About Our Practice

The team at Renu Dental Care is proud to provide you and your family with a wide range of dental care options. Whether it’s your child’s first exam, you want a cosmetic procedure, or you’re a senior looking to maintain your smile for as long as possible, we’re here to help.

To schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning, please visit our website or call us today at 218-281-1301.