Due to recent advancements in dental healthcare, seniors (60 years and older) can now keep their teeth for longer than ever before. Given their advancing age, however, there are some conditions that they are vulnerable to, conditions that put their dental health at risk.
If you find yourself (or a loved one) struggling with one of the following, please consult a dentist quickly.
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- Dry mouth
Lack of saliva in the mouth is caused by changes in the body or side effects from medications. This is very dangerous and may lead to bacterial infections. If caused by medication, consult with your doctor and see if you can change it. Additionally, drink more water and chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva production.
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- Wear and tear
The older you get, the weaker your teeth become; a result of having used them actively for years. This wear and tear in the mouth may lead to enamel breakdown and consequently, cavities. To prevent this, go for regular dental checkups and increase your fluoride treatment. Fluoride can be found in toothpaste and mouthwash.
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- Stomatitis
If you are using dentures, make sure that they are fitted perfectly. This not only keeps your smile beautiful, but it also helps you prevent the bacteria buildup that is caused by badly-fitted dentures. If not addressed quickly, the tissue under the denture becomes inflamed, causing pain and infections.
To keep your teeth healthy, brush at least twice/day and floss at least once per day, eat healthy food, drink lots of water, and visit your dentist regularly. Your smile depends on it!