Advancing age puts many people at risk of developing several health conditions, including problems related to the mouth, teeth, and gums. These include darkened teeth, dry mouth, root decay, tooth loss, gum disease, denture-induced stomatitis, and an uneven jaw bone. Let’s discuss some tips for maintaining oral health as you age.
Take Calcium Supplements
As we get older, many of us fail to get enough calcium from our diets. Older adults, especially, need to increase their calcium intake to optimize the health of their teeth and gums. Osteoporosis is a common condition in aging adults, which can break down the bones around the teeth, causing potential tooth loss.
Try to eat a diet with calcium-rich foods, such as leafy greens, dairy products, and nuts. You can also boost your calcium intake through supplements but consult with a physician or a dentist who can better guide you.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash
Besides daily brushing and flossing, using an antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day is a great way to improve oral health. Rinsing with mouthwash as a last step of the routine will help get rid of any food or bacterial remnant and also make your mouth clean. Opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash as that will prevent your mouth from getting dry and is a lot less aggressive.
Take Care of Your Oral Appliances
If you are using an oral appliance, such as a mouthguard or dentures, ask your dentist about the proper maintenance of these appliances and follow them carefully. It is also advisable to have regular check-ins with your dentist if you use oral appliances.
Quit Tobacco Products
Tobacco is harmful to your oral and overall health. Smoking cigarettes can result in stained teeth, whereas chewing tobacco can lead to tooth decay, mouth cancer, and other life-threatening conditions. Remember that it is never too late to turn things around for the better and that you can start today!
Drink More Water
Several medications can result in oral dryness, resulting in enamel erosion. To avoid this, you can request your doctor to switch your medicines if needed or try increasing your water intake. Consuming the recommended daily water intake is important for all areas of your health, including your gums and teeth. The amount of water your body needs depends on several factors, including energy output, body weight, climate, and other medical conditions. The usual recommendation is to consume at least 1 liter of water daily.
Conclusion
As you grow older, you should pay more attention to oral and overall health. In addition to religiously following these tips, visiting the dentist at least twice every year is important to stop serious problems from occurring. Treating a problem at its earlier stages will prevent it from aggravating and negatively affecting the rest of the body. You can now request a dental consult here!
