As you grow older, you may start to notice your oral health changing. Maybe your mouth is more dry than usual, or you’re getting cavities when you never did as a kid. It’s always a good practice to get dental care advice from a dentistry provider who can keep your mouth’s health on track no matter what age you are. Locals of all ages in Eagle River, AK, turn to Legacy Dental Arts for high-quality oral health care services. Here, they explain a few things you can expect to happen with your teeth and gums as you age, as well as how to prevent problems.

Common Oral Health Conditions Seniors Face

• Tooth Loss: This becomes more common the older you get due to your mouth becoming more prone to infections. Many senior patients get dentures or dental implants to replace their teeth and preserve their health and self-confidence.
• Dry Mouth: Oftentimes, certain medications can result in a decrease in saliva, or your mouth can slow down saliva production on its own. Since dry mouth can result in tooth decay, it’s best to speak with a dentist about a solution that’s right for you. 
• Cavities: Even if you’ve never had them before, many seniors experience more cavities as they age. The development of cavities is worsened by dry mouth, making you more susceptible to bacteria buildup, which can lead to infections or gum disease.

Treatment & Prevention of Age-Related Oral Health Issues

• Making Regular Dentist Appointments: These are important to pencil into your schedule twice a year so your dentist can keep a eye on any problem areas and address issues you might be facing.
• Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene: This just as important as it was when you were younger. Make sure to brush twice a day and floss once a day. If you have dentures, clean them daily, just as you would your regular teeth.
• Going With Your Gut: Even if you just feel like something is off, give your dentist a call. This ensures your dentistry provider is able to catch any issues before they start to cause major damage. 

If you’re searching for a dentist in the Eagle River, AK, area to help you with your changing dental health, look no further than Legacy Dental Arts. As a full-service office, they offer regular teeth cleanings, emergency services, and teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry so you can have all your oral health needs taken care of in one place. Give the team a call at (907) 622-7874 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.