Practicing smart dental care habits is crucial for people of all ages. Brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly are all vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. As people age, however, it becomes even more important to pay special attention to the condition of the mouth. Here’s what you should know about senior dental care.

How to Care for Dentures

Many people wear dentures to enjoy the comforts of natural teeth. However, you must care for them properly in order to keep them in good condition. After every meal, remove and rinse them thoroughly. Use a brush to gently clean your natural teeth and gently scrub the rest of your mouth. Check to make sure there’s no denture adhesive left behind.

Also, make a habit of brushing your dentures once a day to maintain their flawless finish, and soak them overnight to help them keep their structure. Always rinse them thoroughly before you put them on in the morning—many soaking solutions contain chemicals that might be harmful if ingested.

Why Checkups Are Essential

Schedule routine exams with the dentist to stay informed of any changes to your oral health. Adults over 60 are vulnerable to a number of different concerns that may affect their teeth and gums. Among the most common is dry mouth, which is often a side effect of medications that elderly individuals may take to treat conditions like high cholesterol or heart disease.

Dry mouth can cause cavities to form, which in turn can aggravate the gums if left untreated and lead to gum disease. Further, dentists also check the mouth for signs of oral cancer. Since this takes years to develop, it’s not usually detected until after the age of 55.

Important Nutrition Tips

Be mindful of changes in your mouth’s condition and adjust your diet accordingly. If you suffer from cavities, for example, your dentist may advise you to limit your consumption of sugar to promote a healthier mouth. Opt for foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and a variety of sources of lean protein, all of which provide optimal support for healthy teeth and gums.

Calcium is particularly vital to the needs of elderly individuals, as they are more at risk of osteoporosis. If this bone loss occurs, it could affect the jaw bone and the structure and support of the teeth.
 

Making routine visits to the dentist is another easy, important step in maintaining your oral health. Visit Village Smiles Family Dentistry in Pittsford, NY, for dental exams, cosmetic dentistry, fillings, and more essential treatments to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Visit the website for more information, or call (585) 385-2033 to schedule an appointment.