Dental care is essential for your overall health, as it improves confidence, allows you to eat healthy foods, and reduces your risk of infections. However, as you get older, your dental needs may change, along with your abilities. From tooth loss to gum disease, many oral issues are more common with age, so you must ensure you're maintaining your smile correctly. Here are a few tips dentists recommend to seniors for easier and more effective care.

How to Care for Your Dental Health as a Senior

1. Share Health Updates With Your Dentist

Many health conditions that might not seem related to your mouth can affect dental care. For example, diabetes impacts the sugar content of your saliva, making tooth decay and gum disease more likely. Some medications also cause dry mouth, which can lead to cavities. Talk to your dentist about the medications you're taking, the health conditions you have, and any symptoms you notice in your mouth so you can get proper care.

2. Get the Right Equipment

Brushing with a manual toothbrush requires a lot of hand, shoulder, and arm movement, which can be difficult if you have mobility issues or joint problems that are common with age. To reduce the amount of motion needed to remove plaque, get an electric toothbrush. You can also use a water pick instead of floss to clean between your teeth, as it's usually easier to maneuver.

3. Replace Missing Teeth

When you lose a tooth, the bone and gum tissue in the area deteriorate, while other nearby teeth shift toward the gap. This can affect your entire bite and may lead to more tooth loss in the future. Filling in the space with bridges or dental implants helps keep the rest of your mouth healthy, while also making it easier to eat. If you've lost multiple teeth, talk to your dentist about options for dentures.

Whether you need tooth implants, crowns, or dentures, or it’s simply time for your annual cleaning, contact the skilled team at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. Their qualified dentists work together to provide a wide range of advanced services, including cosmetic, periodontal, orthodontic, and general dentistry. To make an appointment today, call (907) 486-3257 or visit them online.