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As people age, reduced immunity, bone loss, and medical conditions can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other serious dental health problems. However, Four Corners Dental Group reminds patients that there are several ways to defend against these changes. To help you protect your smile as you grow older, this Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, dentist highlights a few important oral health tips.  

4 Oral Health Tips for Seniors

1. Revisit Your Brushing Strategy

No matter what your age, brushing is an essential part of oral hygiene. To safeguard your mouth from cavity-causing plaque, you should continue to brush twice a day for two minutes at a time. If arthritis presents challenges, consider using an easy-grip electric toothbrush that can do the work for you. In addition to brushing, keep with up with daily flossing and mouthwash to reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

2. Drink up to Fight Dry Mouth

dentistSaliva helps protect teeth by clearing away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay. However, since saliva production decreases with age, seniors can often experience a dry mouth that increases tooth decay and gum disease risks. This effect may be even more noticeable when using certain kinds of medications. If you experience a dry mouth, it’s critical to stay hydrated and to work with your dentist to explore ways to increase saliva production.  

3. Care for Dentures

Dentures are an excellent way to restore the look and function of a smile after tooth loss—a common problem among older individuals. But while these prosthetics may be made out of artificial materials, it’s important to keep them clean. Specifically, dentures should be brushed with non-abrasive products and placed in a cleaning solution on a regular basis. Taking these steps will keep oral bacteria to a minimum and ensure a healthy, clean smile.

4. Don’t Smoke

From staining teeth to increasing cancer risks, smoking is detrimental to oral health for many reasons. If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting could help you avoid increased risk of cavities, oral cancer, and gum disease.

In addition to following the above steps, it’s also important for seniors to schedule regular checkups with their dentists about once every six months. If you’re due for an exam, you can turn to the trusted specialists at Four Corners Dental Group. Providing affordable dental care for patients of all ages, this Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, clinic can take care of all your oral health needs in one convenient place. Visit this family dentistry office online to learn more about their comprehensive services. For appointments, call (907) 376-2790 to reach the Wasilla location or (907) 258-3384 to speak with the team in Anchorage.

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