Research has found that adults over the age of 65 have just 18 out of 32 of their natural teeth, and 2 out of every 3 seniors have gum disease. Since oral health is linked to your risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, pneumonia, and your ability to chew and speak clearly, additional care and professional teeth cleaning appointments to maintain a healthy smile are critical. Here are a few recommendations to minimize the risk of decay, gum disease, and the need for dentures or dental implants. 

Top 4 Oral Care Tips to Embrace in Your Golden Years

1. Brush & Floss Twice a Day

Everyone should maintain a healthy routine of brushing and flossing every morning and every evening before bed. The combination of brushing and flossing eliminates harmful mouth bacteria, plaque buildup, and food debris so your gums stay healthy and your teeth avoid decay. As a senior, consider investing in an electric toothbrush, as the quick-spinning bristles make brushing efficient and the process requires less wrist movement. 

2. Avoid Tobacco

Dentists encourage elderly patients to quit smoking right away. Since tobacco products lead to tooth stains, bad breath, and increase your risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and gum recession, eliminating this vice will help you improve your oral health. 

3. Combat Dry Mouth 

It’s common for senior citizens to experience dry mouth as a side effect of prescription medication. Saliva production helps with speaking, chewing, swallowing, and the movement of food debris and mouth bacteria to reduce decay or oral infections. Patients struggling with dry mouth should focus on hydration, chewing sugar-free gum to promote saliva production, and asking their doctor or dentist for mouth rinses and medication to help combat the issue. 

4. Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings

Most importantly, stay in close contact with your dentist. Schedule teeth cleanings every six months as a way to better understand your oral health and to catch any issues like cavities or gum disease early on. Routine teeth cleanings can also help save money in the long run as you won’t have to worry about visiting a cosmetic dentist for extractions and dental implants to restore your smile. These appointments are also important for individuals who wear dentures as your oral health team will evaluate the condition of your gums. 

If you call New London County, CT, home and are looking for a full-service dental practice, call Waterford Dental Health today at (860) 447-2235 to schedule your first appointment. They handle everything from routine teeth cleaning to comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedures. For more information on their specialties, including dental implants and veneers, visit their website.