5 Ways To Prevent Age-Related Dental Problems

As you age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of your dental health. Age-related dental problems can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. About 96% of adults over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with gum disease, and about 1 in 5 adults in that age group have lost all their teeth.

Fortunately, there are ways to protect your teeth. Here are five ways to protect your teeth and maintain good oral health as you age.

Schedule Routine Dental Care

As you get older, it can get harder to find the time for dental visits. Unfortunately, postponing dental care increases your risk of age-related dental problems. Regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent and detect dental problems.

Dental exams can also detect other issues like oral cancer and diabetes. That's why dental care is so important. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, take care of necessary dental work, and address any concerns you may have.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

A good oral hygiene routine is crucial at any age, but good oral hygiene becomes even more important as you get older. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, but there are ways to make brushing even more effective. Instead of brushing your teeth as soon as you wake up in the morning, wait until after you have breakfast.

Brushing after breakfast lets you remove the food particles that gather when you eat as well as the bacteria that can build up overnight. It's also important for you to floss after every meal. Flossing removes the particles and plaque that get stuck between your teeth. If you are unsure about using a flossing tool, talk to your dentist about using a water floss tool instead. Water floss tools tend to be easier to grip and use.

Change the Way You Eat

A balanced diet is essential for good physical health as you age, but a balanced diet can also improve your dental health. In fact, a healthy diet plays a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Sugary and acidic substances can lead to tooth decay and enamel erosion. To protect your teeth and gums, reduce your intake of these types of foods and beverages.

In addition, add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to your daily diet. It's also important that you drink more clear water throughout the day. Adequate hydration can dilute acids that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. 

Eliminate Tobacco Use

If you smoke, you could be increasing your risk of developing some cancers, but you're also increasing your risk of dental problems. Studies show that untreated tooth decay is higher among people who smoke. In fact, about 43% of adults over the age of 65 have untreated tooth decay.

Smoking can also increase your risk of premature tooth loss and gum disease. One way to prevent these dental problems is to start a smoking cessation program.

Avoid Tooth Damage

Your teeth can become more fragile as you age. Unfortunately, that puts your teeth at an increased risk of injuries. That's especially true if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night. The simple act of grinding your teeth can cause the enamel on your teeth to deteriorate. That's where a night guard becomes beneficial. When you wear a night guard, you can prevent damage to your teeth while you sleep. 

Now that you're aging, you need to protect your teeth. Call Carlino & Paton, DDS PC today to schedule an appointment. We can help you prevent age-related dental problems with our dental services.