Dental health is just as important as general health. Although you may not think about it often, your teeth are essential to your body. The risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other issues increases with age – but there are ways to combat them! This is why you need to find a good family dentistry practice that can provide you care through each stage of your life, so they know your mouth and what you can expect as you get older. As you age, you should be aware of several changes to your dental health. Below we will cover tips and tricks on keeping your pearly whites in tip-top shape as you age.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that occurs when the bacteria in your mouth build up and begin to eat away at the gums and bones around your teeth. The first sign of gum disease may be an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If you don’t treat gingivitis, it can progress to periodontitis, damaging the ligaments and bones that support your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss. You can lower your risk of gum disease by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year. If you’re over 40, you may want to see a dentist at least once every six months.
Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a rare but severe disease, and the risk of it increases as you age. The risk for most people is very low, but you can lower your risk even more by visiting the dentist regularly. Your dentist will likely be able to spot and monitor any potential signs of oral cancer, which include lumps or thickening of the tongue, loose teeth, and unusual bleeding. You can also lower your risk of oral cancer by limiting the number of tobacco products you use, as well as alcohol and coffee, which can irritate the gums and increase the risk of gum disease.
Loss of Enamel
When we are young, the enamel on our teeth is tough and robust, but it loses its strength as we age. This is especially true for people who used to take fluoride while they were growing up. The fluoride keeps teeth strong and prevents tooth decay, but it is only effective when on the teeth. Once your teeth have formed, the fluoride will be absorbed by the teeth, providing protection but also contributing to the loss of enamel if overconsumed. This is why you will notice that your teeth will get softer as you age. You can slow down the loss of enamel by using soft-bristled toothbrushes and gently brushing your teeth. You should also visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth cleaned.
Conclusion
As you get older, you will experience changes in your dental health. Gum disease is the biggest threat to your oral health, and the best way to prevent it is to brush your teeth twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. You can also lower your risk of oral cancer and the loss of tooth enamel with regular brushing and dental cleanings. With these tips and tricks, you can keep your teeth healthy as you age and into retirement!
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