subject: Seniors And Oral Health-understanding How To Care For Your Smile As You Age [print this page] By establishing proper oral care, you can keep smiling well into retirement. Many people believe that tooth loss is an inevitable part of aging, but this is not the case. With proper oral care you can keep your teeth for a lifetime and remain healthy as you age. As you get older, your dental needs begin to change and become increasingly specialized, making regular visits to the dentist even more essential than ever before. It is important to watch out for the following common problems, as you get older:
*Gum (periodontal) disease
*Root caries (decay)
*Oral cancer
*Dry mouth
*Difficulty brushing and flossing
*Limited dentist access
Maintaining Proper Oral Care
Daily brushing and flossing of your natural teeth is essential to maintaining their health. Plaque can quickly build up on your teeth, especially if oral hygiene is neglected, and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. To maintain good oral health, it is important for you to:
*Brush twice a day
*Floss daily
*Visit your dentist in Amarillo for regular cleanings and examinations
If you are a senior headed for a checkup, your dentist should conduct a thorough history and dental exam. Some common questions that your dentist might ask include:
*The approximate date of your last dental visit and reason for the visit
*If you have noticed any changes in your mouth
*If you have noticed loose or sensitive teeth
*If you have noticed any difficulty tasting, chewing or swallowing
*If you have any pain, discomfort, sores or bleeding in your mouth
*If you have noticed any lumps, bumps or swelling in your mouth
Understanding Gum Disease
Because the earliest stages of gum disease are reversible, it is important to spot it early on. Gum disease is a potentially serious condition that can affect people of all ages, but especially those who are over the age of 40. It is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. The bacteria in plaque, which can build up if it is not properly removed through daily brushing and flossing, cause gum disease. If detected in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed, which makes it vital for you to visit your dentist immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:
*Red, puffy or swollen gums
*Bleeding gums when brushing and flossing
*Teeth that appear longer as gums have receded
*Gums that have separated from your teeth, creating a pocket
*Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting
*Pus between teeth and gums
*Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
As we age, various issues that affect our mouth can increase or worsen, which makes it even more important to be aware of conditions associated with aging that can impact your oral health. Visit your dentist frequently for routine checkups and cleanings to ensure the health of your teeth and gums. Remember, proper oral health care can impact your overall health as well, so be sure to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine in addition to regular visits to your dentist in Amarillo, TX.
