As you age, your teeth and gums can become more susceptible to oral diseases, especially gingivitis and periodontitis. Oral health problems can, in turn, negatively impact your overall health as well. Thankfully, there's no reason why good oral health can't be enjoyed at any age. The Edmonton dentists at Westmount Dental Centre want older adults and seniors to know that there are many steps you can take to maintaining a healthy smile well into your golden years. Here are our top dental and oral care tips for seniors.
- Brush regularly, but gently As you get older, it's important to continue brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. Brushing after every meal, if you have the time and opportunity, is ideal. However, be careful that you aren't brushing your teeth too hard. Brushing too hard can wear away at tooth enamel, which tends to soften with age. Edmonton dentists also recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles. - Floss your teeth on a daily basis If you've never really developed a habit of flossing, then now is the time to start. As important as it is to brush your teeth, a toothbrush does a poor job at removing plaque and food particles from between the teeth. Flossing your teeth daily can greatly reduce your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease. - Stay hydrated to avoid dry mouth It is not uncommon for older adults to experience dry mouth as a symptom of certain medications. Unfortunately, dry mouth makes it easier for plaque bacteria to stick to the teeth. To combat this, make sure you stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day. It is also a good idea to speak to your doctor about your symptoms, as they may be able to recommend a different medication. - Practice good denture care If you wear dentures, then proper denture care is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Clean your dentures on a daily basis and make sure you take them out every night. When not being worn, your dentures should be soaked in order to loosen up any plaque and tartar that might have accumulated on them. Make sure you ask your Edmonton denture clinic about the right type of denture solution to use for your dentures. - Visit your Edmonton dentist as often as recommended While some older adults can continue visiting their dentist about twice a year, your Edmonton dentist may recommend that you schedule appointments more frequently. Keeping up with your dental appointments will help keep plaque bacteria in check and allow your dentist to keep a closer eye on your oral health. Most oral health problems are highly treatable when caught in the early stages. Westmount Dental Centre is a family dentist in Edmonton that provides quality dental care for family members of all ages. If you are looking for a dentist in West Edmonton that treats seniors, don't hesitate to contact Westmount Dental Centre today.