It's good that dentures and implants exist, but it's possible to delay your need for them. Don't stop visiting the dentist. Your dental team wants to help you enjoy healthy teeth and gums through your golden years.
You also lower your risk of oral health problems when your mouth is in good condition, so here are some hygiene tips to help you achieve that.
Eat right
Proper nutrition is crucial for your oral health. A healthy diet helps prevent cavities and keep your teeth and gums strong. Steer clear of acidic food and beverages and limit your intake of sugary treats.
Brush gently and properly
You may need a fluoridated toothpaste. Talk to your dentist about which product they recommend. Brush in a small circular motion, covering all areas of your teeth. Remember to brush your tongue too! You may find an electric toothbrush works better than a manual and may be easier to hold.
Clean your dentures
Clean your partial or full dentures every day. Like natural teeth, tartar can stick to dentures. You can use a denture brush and soap, or you can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be careful with cleansers that can scratch, discolour, and weaken your dentures. You can also soak your dentures overnight in warm water. Regularly check your dentures for cracks or damages. Take it back to your dentist for any necessary repairs.
Care for your implants
If you have implants, be sure to care for them the way you would your natural teeth. Brush and floss them gently. If you're interested in this tooth replacement option, we can provide you with further information.
Come in for an oral cancer screening
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist. Talk to them about performing an oral cancer screening. At home, do a self-check of your mouth, looking for sores, patches, swelling, or anything unusual.
Look after your gums
Gum disease is challenging to detect as it's often painless. One common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Don't get lax with oral care. You're never too old to maintain healthy gums. See your dentist if you notice any swelling, bleeding, or redness around your gums.
Report tooth sensitivity
Brushing hard won't guarantee a better clean. If anything, this may only lead to receding gum lines. Be gentle when brushing your teeth to avoid scraping away your enamel. If you're already experiencing sensitivity, let your dentist know and ask if they can recommend specific products you can try.
Talk to your dentist about dry mouth
If you're experiencing dry mouth due to medications you're taking, talk to your dentist about it. They can recommend ways to effectively deal with a dry mouth. You need to stay hydrated and keep saliva flowing to combat bacterial growth. Drinking more water and cutting back on acidic beverages will help.
Avoid smoking
Smoking can make you more susceptible to oral diseases. Quitting smoking is a tough goal, but it's worth all the hard work.
With age comes wisdom, so certainly you know our team will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Take note of these oral hygiene tips for seniors and for more information, contact us at Kitchener Dentist.