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While dental care is essential for people of all ages, it’s especially important for seniors. Understanding the oral hygiene issues that many people face as they age will allow you to have a sparkling smile throughout your lifetime. Dentists recommend the following care tips for seniors to help preserve oral health.

What to Know About Senior Dental Care

1. Keep Dry Mouth at Bay

Saliva helps your teeth fight against cavities. It prevents plaque and bacteria from lingering and also neutralizes damaging acids. Many seniors experience dry mouth, either as a natural result of the aging process or because of medication.

If you experience dry mouth frequently, increase your water intake. You can also ask your dentist about dry mouth solutions, such as mouthwashes containing xylitol.

2. Consider Investing in an Electric Toothbrush

dentistProperly gripping a toothbrush is difficult for seniors with arthritis and other joint issues. If you have trouble brushing your teeth, an electric toothbrush might help you thoroughly clean your mouth.

An electric brush does most of the work for you, thanks to its oscillating head. The handles on electric brushes are also bigger, which makes them easier to grip.

3. Understand How to Care for Dentures

If you have dentures, proper care is crucial to keep them and your oral health intact. Dentures should be soaked each night in a specially formulated solution. They should also be gently brushed to remove food particles using a nonabrasive toothpaste.

Make sure you’re cleaning your gums and mouth when your dentures are removed. While you won’t need to worry about tooth decay, gum disease can still occur. 

 

Visiting your dentist on a twice-yearly basis is recommended to keep your smile bright and healthy. Gregory Sy, DDS & Associates offers comprehensive dental care services to people of all ages. They perform teeth cleanings and exams to prevent issues, as well as dental implants, root canals, and crowns. If you have cosmetic concerns about your teeth, they offer whitening and other procedures. Schedule an appointment in Amherst, OH, by calling (440) 282-9550 or visit the website for more helpful patient resources. 

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