As we get older, it becomes more and more important to take care of our bodies – including our teeth! If you think about it, our teeth go through a lot of wear and tear throughout our lifetime. Without proper care and routine dental habits, our teeth can take a beating. If you are over the age of 55, here are a few tips to help you keep your teeth healthy.
Don’t Neglect Your Teeth
We know that there is a lot to think about as you age. Not only will you be entering into new phases of your life, but health issues can start to become more frequent. It is essential not to forget your teeth. Caring for our dental health can have impacts on the rest of our body – because bacteria enter through our mouth and the tiny blood vessels in our gums, keeping this gateway in tip-top shape is a game-changer when it comes to overall health.
Stick with a Daily Dental Routine
We try to teach our children this – that establishing a healthy dental routine will keep our teeth strong for years to come. This advice doesn’t change as we age. Brushing and flossing twice per day, for two minutes each time will keep the bacteria that cause cavities and tooth decay at bay.
Add Fluoride
As you are establishing your daily dental habits, it is important to use the right products. Choosing toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride will help protect your enamel. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in water, but sadly, it isn’t enough for our teeth in water alone. Giving our enamel this boost of protection with our toothpaste and mouthwash is a great addition to a healthy dental routine.
Use the Right Tools
An unfortunate side-effect of aging is arthritis or mobility issues. This can make it difficult to hold a toothbrush or floss. Getting the right tools to aid you will make this easier – so we recommend getting electric toothbrushes and water flossers to eliminate the hassle or pain that some can experience. It is also important to choose one with soft bristles that can be gentle on your enamel.
See Your Dentist in Buda, Texas
Finally, the most important piece of advice is to see your dentist regularly. At your routine visits at Dental Studio in Buda, our dental hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the plaque and tartar. We will take updated x-rays and the dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums, and throat for any signs of disease, issues, or oral cancer. Staying current with your dental appointments can help prevent extensive and invasive procedures down the road, and may just be the difference between a healthy smile and one that requires restorative dentistry. Schedule today!