As you age, your health needs can change, and as a senior, you want to be confident in your smile. A variety of factors affect oral hygiene, and you may be susceptible to a number of risks if you don’t properly care for your teeth. Some dental issues can have serious consequences for your health, so stick with the oral hygiene tips below to ensure you have a healthy mouth.

3 Dental Care Tips for Seniors

1. Use an Electric Toothbrush

Arthritis and other mobility issues can make it difficult to properly brush your teeth, but not brushing well can lead to decay and other complications. To ensure you brush properly, invest in an electric toothbrush, which is much easier to use than a traditional brush. You can also purchase a water-flosser to make flossing easier.

2. Eat Well

Diet plays a serious role in oral hygiene, so optimize what you’re eating. Eat plenty of calcium-rich foods to reinforce enamel strength as well as raw vegetables to give your body essential vitamins and minerals. Make sure to avoid acid- and sugar-heavy foods, as they can cause decay and other oral health issues. If you have a specialized diet, coordinate your plan between your dentist and geriatrician or nutritionist.

3. Visit the Dentist Regularly

The key to maintaining your oral hygiene is keeping in touch with your dentist. Schedule at least two checkups each year and keep them updated on health changes and new medications or supplements you’re taking. If you experience issues like gum disease, which has been linked to cardiovascular disease and respiratory complications, early treatment can have a significant impact on recovery, so having regular checkups is very important.

If you’re a senior looking for effective and compassionate oral hygiene care, Eastgate Smiles Dental Care prides themselves in being a full-service dental care solution for patients of Cincinnati, OH. Dr. Amanda Garrison and her team provide a wide scope of services, including general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, which you can explore on their website. She believes in building a long-term relationship with clients, so call (513) 528-1150 to schedule a dental exam.