Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Aging takes a toll on the body from changes to your looks and health, including your teeth. But no matter your age, taking care of your oral health is essential, and practices like brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist twice a year should continue throughout your lifetime. As you age, you’re more likely to suffer from tooth decay or other dental diseases. If you skip your dental checkups and exams, these problems could go undetected until severe damage has been done to your oral health. If you want to stay looking younger and healthier for longer, check out how to preserve your oral health for the long haul!
Brushing twice a day is the pinnacle to maintaining healthy teeth. But be sure to use the right tools for the job. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush instead of a hard or medium-bristled one. If you struggle with dexterity issues, use an electric toothbrush instead. You don’t have to splurge on an expensive one. Just make sure that it is ADA approved. Also, be sure to use fluoridated toothpaste. While adding an oral rinse isn’t absolutely necessary, it can help boost your confidence as it banishes bad breath. If you wear partial dentures or full dentures, be sure to clean them at least once a day.
Floss once a day to remove particles and bacteria from between your teeth. Flossing is a critical component to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It’s the equivalent of brushing between your teeth. Ideally, floss after your last meal of the day so that you don’t have any food particles lingering between your teeth for hours while you sleep. If using string floss is challenging, consider switching to a water flosser. While string floss is best, using a water flosser is better than not cleaning between your teeth at all.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, prevent dry mouth, and rinse away harmful bacteria and food particles from your mouth. As you age, you may notice that your mouth becomes drier. Often, this is a side effect of medication, although anyone can experience dry mouth at any age, regardless of their health condition. However, dry mouth makes you more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Sipping on water, instead of sugary beverages, throughout the day is better for your health and your teeth and gums.
Visit your Okemos family dentist at least twice a year for dental checkups and cleanings. These visits allow Dr. Tenaglia a chance to identify any potential dental issues that need treatment. Ignoring problems like cavities or damaged teeth will worsen without treatment. Even if you wear a complete set of dentures, you still need your gums and jawbone health evaluated and should receive an oral cancer screening twice a year.
Family Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing
As you can see, maintaining your oral health is a lifetime commitment. As you age, it becomes even more important because damaged, decayed, or missing teeth can make you look aged beyond your years. Maintain a beautiful, healthy smile by taking good care of your teeth and gums, and see Dr. Tenaglia for your dental checkups and cleanings every six months. For more information about oral care for seniors or schedule an appointment, please call Tenaglia Smiles at (517) 347-6733.