Oral health changes over time. It’s only natural that your mouth starts to suffer as you age. Care for your aging mouth begins with brushing and flossing daily as you get older.
You’re also more susceptible to cavities and gum disease the older you get. That’s why it’s essential to take good care of your teeth and gums beyond just brushing.
Why Is Oral Health Crucial Over 50?
If you’re over the age of 50, you need to be aware of the challenges of aging and how they can impact your teeth and gums.
Your teeth are more susceptible to cavities and gum disease as you get older. While tooth decay is a common problem for all ages, it can be more common for seniors because of diet, medication use, and overall health.
You may also experience other oral health problems as you age, such as cracked or broken teeth from grinding your mouth at night or even having trouble chewing food due to gum disease.
1. Dentures Fit Properly
Make sure your dentures are fitting correctly. This is especially important if you have dentures from several years ago or just getting new ones. Even if you don’t wear dentures all day long, they should be cleaned daily and adjusted periodically by a dentist or dental hygienist.
2. Brush and Floss Daily
It’s easy to forget about something as essential as brushing and flossing when there are so many other things on your mind — but don’t let this happen! Regular brushing and flossing will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, leading to tooth loss if left untreated.
For best results, brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush (ideally one that has a timer). Use fluoride toothpaste; it helps strengthen the enamel on your teeth and guards against cavities.
3. Mouth Wash
Using a mouthwash after brushing your teeth can help improve oral health in several ways. Some products contain fluoride, which strengthens the tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Other types of mouthwash contain antibacterial agents that can kill germs in the mouth and prevent gum disease. Some people find mouthwash too strong or bitter-tasting, so check with your dentist before buying one.
4. Implants After Tooth Loss
If you lose one or more teeth, dental implants may be an option for replacement. They are tiny titanium posts placed into the jawbone where teeth were lost and connected to an artificial tooth or fixed denture (which fits over the implant).
When properly aligned and cared for, implants look natural. They feel as good as real teeth when biting down on something hard! If you have dental insurance, ask about implant coverage before deciding on replacement options.
5. Don’t Ignore Dry Mouth
If you notice that your mouth has been feeling dry for a while, it could be a sign of dehydration. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. If your mouth continues to feel dry, talk to your doctor about how to increase your fluid intake.
6. Rinse With Water After Every Meal or Snack
When you eat, the bacteria in your mouth contact food particles and saliva, leading to plaque buildup, which causes gum disease and tooth decay. Rinse with warm salt water after every meal or snack to prevent this from happening.
7. Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco products contain nicotine and tar, which can irritate your gums and cause them to recede over time. If you must smoke tobacco products, don’t do so directly after meals because this will increase the amount of food particles left behind in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup.
8. Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and even tooth loss. It’s also important to note that women are more susceptible to this than men because they are smaller.
9. Watch For Any Changes In Your Mouth and Jaw
Suppose you notice any changes in your teeth or jaw joints, such as pain or tenderness when chewing or a problem opening your mouth wide enough to eat certain foods.
Make an appointment with your dentist right away. These symptoms may indicate something serious like gum disease or osteoarthritis in the jaw joint.
10. Keep Regular Dental Appointments To Prevent Gum Disease
Even though you’re over 50, it’s still essential to keep up with regular dental visits every six months. This will allow your dentist to make sure no problems develop under the surface that could lead to severe issues if left untreated.
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