As we age, it’s important to take exceptional care of our teeth and gums. Dental care for aging adults is vital for maintaining their general quality of life since they are more prone to oral diseases such as gum disease and tooth decay. Here are some dental care tips for adults over 50.
Visit the Dentist
Regular dental appointments are essential for your dental health. Infrequent or no visits might allow problems to worsen over time. You should schedule cleaning sessions twice a year or as suggested by your dentist. Your dentist can advise you on how to care for your teeth and keep an eye out for any issues that can be detected early and treated before they become a significant health issue.
Brush Daily
It’s common for dentists to advise us to brush our teeth twice a day, one in the morning and another before bed. You should ensure that you follow these daily dental requirements as they can improve your oral hygiene. You can also choose to brush your teeth in between meals.
To improve brushing techniques, most dentists recommend electric toothbrushes. Regardless of the type of toothbrush, you should replace it every three months. You’ll also want to make sure you’re using the proper bristle strength. While a soft toothbrush is recommended, those with gum disease require a firm toothbrush.
Floss Regularly
Flossing is a vital part of dental hygiene, yet some do not do it daily. You can improve your dental health and lower the risk of cavities or gum disease by flossing every day. It’s a quick and simple approach to keeping your teeth clean. It may be challenging if you have bridges, but you can ask your dentist to teach you the proper flossing practices.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Rinsing with an antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash is a great way to improve your oral hygiene, on top of brushing and flossing. This is beneficial if you feel less tempted to floss or brush.
Take Calcium Supplements
Calcium is a crucial part of oral health, especially for our elderly loved ones. When we age, we don’t consume enough calcium. You’ll need to boost your calcium intake to maintain optimal oral health. As the elderly are more likely to develop osteoporosis, taking calcium supplements can help prevent it while keeping your teeth strong and healthy.
Hydrate Yourself
Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications and can contribute to enamel erosion. You can ask your doctor to adjust your medications or consume more water to avoid dry mouth. Drinking sufficient water is important for your overall health. The general rule of thumb is to drink 64 ounces of water daily, but it mostly depends on your body weight, energy output, and climate.
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