Your healthcare needs change as your body ages. The teeth, gums, and mouth often require extra attention to stay strong and healthy later in life senior years. Without following diligent dental care practices, you’ll be susceptible to tooth pain and loss, discoloration of the teeth, and periodontal disease. To minimize the risk of developing one of these issues, follow these three dental care tips.

3 Ways Seniors Can Improve Their Dental Care

1. Use an Accommodating Toothbrush

Arthritis, mobility issues, neurological conditions, and other age-related challenges can make it difficult to carry out some of the basic tasks of daily living, including brushing your teeth. A senior who has trouble clasping and holding smaller items can be helped by purchasing an easy-grip toothbrush, which is designed for effortless grasping and holding. This will make brushing your teeth stress-free, letting you stay on top of your dental care needs.

2. Prevent Dry Mouth

The mouth needs a consistent supply of saliva to keep the teeth and gums rinsed of food particles and bacteria. When the salivary glands cannot produce enough moisture, a condition called dry mouth results. This is a common side effect of many medications prescribed for seniors, including drugs that treat high cholesterol, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Prevent dry mouth by chewing sugar-free gum, drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and using over-the-counter oral moisturizing sprays.

3. Stop Smoking & Limit Alcohol Intake

As a person grows older, their chances of developing oral cancer increases. The odds are even higher for those who smoke or drink alcohol with any regularity. If you smoke or consume alcohol on a frequent basis, consider cutting back — or, ideally, stopping altogether. Always have any persistent sores, bleeding, ulcers, or color changes in the mouth promptly checked out by a dental care professional.

Chinook Family Dentistry has been serving the Anchorage, AK, area for more than 35 years. Their dental care services include exams and preventative treatments, fillings, crowns, oral cancer screenings, and cosmetic dentistry procedures. They provide professional, compassionate care, no matter what your age or health. Call (907) 272-8422 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their dental services.