Your body changes as you age. This includes your oral health, as your risks for dental conditions increases after age 55. Beyond having a quality and trusted family dentist, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your oral health from decay and disease. Here are a few to keep in mind.

How to Enhance Oral Health in Your Golden Years

1. Beware of Dry Mouth

Chronic dry mouth is a common ailment that occurs as you age and your saliva production lowers, and it can be compounded by certain medications or conditions. Your saliva plays an important role in preventing tooth decay, as it contains antibacterial and enamel-repairing compounds. If you have dry mouth, speak with your dentist about possible remedies, taking a list of your current medications with you so they can determine if any are the cause.

2. Be Mindful of What Comes Into Contact With Your Teeth

Enamel wears down over time, but you can minimize the amount of damage that occurs in your later years. Avoid consuming sugary or acidic substances, such as soda, as acids will further erode your teeth while sugars contribute to decay. You should also begin using fluoridated products in your teeth cleaning routine, such as ADA-approved brands of fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwashes. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens your enamel and teeth, effectively fighting cavities.

3. See the Dentist More Often

Having more frequent dental appointments will allow your dentist to track the progression of existing conditions and detect new concerns early on. Your chances of being diagnosed with dental diseases get higher with age, including conditions like oral cancer and periodontal disease. The earlier diseases are caught and treated, the less aggressive and more successful treatment will be.

4. Take Proper Care of Your Dentures

Tooth loss in seniors is common, and it’s often treated with full or partial dentures. If you do have a set of artificial teeth, follow the recommended care guidelines to avoid issues like denture damage, gum irritation, and oral sores. Clean them twice daily, and don’t let them dry out. Never try to adjust them yourself, either, as you risk breaking them or over-adjusting them, leading to expensive repairs or an uncomfortable fit.

When you need a dentist to provide attentive care, speak with the team at Nizich Family Dentistry in Juneau, AK. For over 10 years, their dedicated professionals have provided quality dental services, from pediatric teeth cleaning to dentures for more seasoned patients. All treatments are tailored to individual needs and backed by advanced technology, so you can rest easy knowing you’re receiving top-notch care. From denture fittings and repairs to crowns, they’ll meet your dental needs with ease. You can call (907) 789-7001 to book your appointment with them today, and you can learn about their services online.