No matter your age, regular and proper dental care will help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy. But different age groups have different requirements for maintenance, and senior citizens especially need to stay on top of daily brushing, flossing, and dentist appointments. Age, as well as certain issues and diseases, may affect the oral health of older adults more frequently than others. Here’s why it’s important to remain consistent with your dental routine.

Why Oral Health Is Important for Seniors

1. Prevents Tooth Loss

Older individuals have a better chance of keeping their adult teeth with a proper oral hygiene regimen. By middle age and beyond, tooth enamel and gums may deteriorate due to age. Plaque and decay can expedite permanent tooth loss, which makes it difficult for seniors to chew healthy fruits and vegetables. Dentists advise their older patients to keep up their daily brushing and flossing habits, as well as bi-annual dental appointments, to help minimize tooth loss.

2. Helps Curb Disease

Medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia are common in everyone, including senior citizens. Some of these ailments may be brought on by gum disease and poor dental hygiene. For example, inflamed gums can affect blood sugar levels associated with diabetes. The condition can also increase the chance of having a stroke. This is why you should brush and floss after every meal. Regular dental appointments will also help identify and treat issues that can bring on unwanted illnesses.

3. Maintains Saliva Production

Some older adults may have to take one or more types of medications, and certain prescription and over-the-counter products can cause dry mouth. Saliva is the natural lubrication needed to help wash away food particles and bacteria that may trigger plaque, tooth decay, and cavities. Dry mouth can make it challenging for some seniors to eat and chew, which can lead to malnutrition. Dentists advise drinking plenty of water to maintain saliva production. Avoid caffeine and alcohol-based mouthwashes to combat dry mouth.

With proper care, senior citizens can have healthy teeth and gums. The office of Brian W. Charles, DMD, in McCall, ID, specializes in treating older patients by providing preventative solutions and options for preserving adult teeth. Serving Valley and Adams counties for more than 30 years, the dental practice’s services include cosmetic dentistry, veneers, crowns, and teeth whitening. Dr. Charles and his professional staff understand that no two patients are alike and will create customized treatment plans. Schedule a dentist’s appointment by calling (208) 634-7653. Visit the website for the complete lineup of services.