As you grow older, caring for your teeth, and your overall dental health should be your priority. You can expect your teeth to last a lifetime if you properly take care of them. Regardless of your age, you have better chances of keeping your gums and teeth healthy if you brush two times a day, floss, and see your dentist for regular checkups and dental cleaning.
However, despite regular brushing and flossing, you are still at risk of facing some oral health issues once you reach your senior years. This is the main reason why proper dental care, such as regular visits to your dentist plus your effort to brush and floss your teeth as recommended, is crucial for seniors. With that, you can prevent or address the following problems:
1. Darkened teeth – One of the issues that most seniors face regarding their dental health is darkened teeth. It is mainly caused by certain changes in the dentin, which refers to the bone-like tissue in your tooth enamel. Another cause is the excessive consumption of foods and beverages that stain your teeth. Your dentist can present you with a proper dental care plan that will resolve the issue. He can also perform the best teeth whitening procedure, which can remove the stains that you have accumulated for years.
2. Heart disease – According to research, certain heart ailments and gum disease are somewhat connected. If you maintain proper oral hygiene even as you reach your senior years, you will have a strong weapon that will protect you against stroke, heart attack, and any other cardiovascular disease. It has also been discovered that common mouth and oral problems, like missing teeth, cavities and gingivitis, can help predict whether you have an underlying heart disease.
3. Diabetes – Chronic gum disease, like periodontitis, is also related to diabetes. This gum problem can actually hamper the ability of your body to properly utilize insulin. Your gums are also at risk of getting infected if you have high blood sugar, one of the negative effects of diabetes. You can prevent such things from happening if you constantly follow proper dental care plus get regular dental checkups.
4. Tooth sensitivity – As you grow older, you also run the risk of getting more sensitive teeth. Do you want to enjoy a cold glass of your favorite drink only to get the moment ruined with the tingling and sharp sensation you feel in your teeth? Then proper dental care for seniors plus regular visits to your dentist can help. This can address the most common factors causing tooth sensitivity, such as worn enamel, gum disease and cavities.
Other common issues faced by seniors that proper dental care can prevent and address are dry mouth, gum disease, root decay and uneven jawbone. Prioritize senior dental care, and schedule dental checkups at least every 6 months to keep enjoying a healthy set of teeth, and avoid certain health issues.
