6 Things You Need to Know About Oral Health as You Age
By Living Better on August 6, 2019
As we get older, we have to worry about things that once might not have been a big deal. One of those things is oral health. Throughout your life, your teeth have been through a lot. It’s important to continue to take good care of them.
Here are some recommendations for taking care of your oral health as you age.
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Follow Good Oral Hygiene Habits
This tip might seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised by how many seniors fall out of good habits. As you age, the rules of oral hygiene don’t change. You should still brush twice a day and floss daily.
Avoid sugary snacks and other foods that are bad for your teeth. Steer clear of tobacco products as they stain teeth and can lead to oral cancer.
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Drink Tap Water
This is a simple way to take care of your oral health. Tap water contains fluoride that helps protect your teeth.
You can get fluoride treatments at your dentist. Regularly being exposed to it from tap water, however, provides extra protection. People of all ages can benefit from this tip.
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Use the Right Products – and Techniques
As we get older, it can be more difficult to stick to a regular oral hygiene routine. Conditions such as arthritis can make it hard to brush and floss normally.
Use products that make your daily routine easier. Get a toothbrush with a good grip so that you can hold it firmly. Use floss picks or water picks to make flossing easier.
But remember, it’s not enough to just brush and floss. You should be using the right techniques. When you brush, use small circular motions with gentle pressure. When flossing, don’t snap the string against your gums or use a sawing motion.
If you struggle to use the proper technique, talk to your dentist. They can help you establish a routine that is both practical and effective.
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Visit a Dentist Regularly
Like everyone else, you should see a dentist twice a year. This is especially important as you get older.
Your nerves aren’t as sensitive as they used to be. This can make it difficult to detect problems before they become serious. At regular checkups, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums. They’ll address any issues right away, saving you the hassle, time, and money later on.
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Go to the Right Office
According to this Woodbridge Dental office, seniors face unique oral health problems. This means that they should visit an office specializing in senior care.
At the right office, the staff is accommodating and better equipped to deal with certain issues. For instance, senior dental offices know how to address blood clotting and dry mouth, which are issues that often come with age.
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Think About Your Finances
When you retire, you might lose essential healthcare benefits. Regular dental visits aren’t covered by Medicare. Medicaid doesn’t offer dental coverage in most states.
If your visits and procedures aren’t covered, you could face a serious financial burden. Don’t let money stop you from getting the dental care you need. There are plenty of programs out there for seniors. Some options you can take advantage of include:
- Clinics at dental schools. Some schools let students treat patients, so they can get experience. The visits are supervised by professionals, and you get treatment at a reduced rate.
- Clinics that charge based on your income. Call your county health department to find a location near you.
- United Way chapters. Call these organizations to see if they can connect you with free or cheap dental services.
Remember, your smile is precious! It’s important to take care of it so that it’ll last you many more years to come.
