Due to plaque and decay, many seniors are more at risk of losing their teeth in their Golden Years after years of neglect with their oral hygiene. Unfortunately, it can be painful and uncomfortable to lose teeth and get implants or dentures. To maintain your smile and practice proper dental hygiene, there are a few important steps to take to protect your teeth as you age.
Schedule Dental Cleanings
Many people fail to schedule cleanings with their dentist throughout the year because they want to avoid visiting the dental office. Cleanings are essential to remove the buildup of plaque that every day brushing can’t always remove. Schedule a cleaning with a dental professional like All About Smiles Incorporated every six months to reduce the risk of decay and gum disease.
Avoid Acidic Foods
You may think that eating tomato sauce or fruit each day is harmless for your health, but the foods contain a high amount of acid and can cause enamel to break down over time. The enamel is meant to protect your teeth and won’t grow back once it’s worn down. This can make your teeth more susceptible to tooth decay due to a lack of protection on the surface of the teeth. Avoid consuming acidic food and use a straw when drinking juices or soda.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash
Use an antiseptic mouthwash each day to kill bacteria in the mouth and prevent bad breath that can develop. Rinse for 30 seconds twice a day for added protection that can reduce the risk of gingivitis while also removing plaque.
Floss Once a Day
Get in the habit of flossing once a day to remove food that is lodged between your teeth. If the food sits on the teeth for too long, it can cause decay to begin to quickly develop. You can also use a water flosser for a more effective way of gently flossing and removing more food particles.
The Golden Years are often the most important time to increase your oral hygiene and take extra steps to care for your teeth. You’ll be able to protect your smile and continue enjoying your favorite foods with teeth that are healthy and aren’t at risk of tooth loss. With the help of a dental professional, you’ll also increase the health of your gums and can monitor your oral health throughout the year to reduce the risk of diseases or decay.
