Help Your Teeth Age Gracefully With You

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums will also contribute to better overall health. Permanent teeth don’t come with a time stamp or an expiration date, and tooth loss is not to be accepted as a natural part of the aging process. Keeping your own teeth for your entire life is a worthy goal and very achievable.
With the exception of an accidental traumatic event, there are steps we can take every day to assure our teeth thrive as we gracefully age:
Brush: Twice every day with a fluoridated tooth paste or gel. One recommendation includes using an electronic toothbrush. The rapid movement of the soft bristles can help to minimize plaque build-up. Another advantage: most include a timer that signals when you have brushed the suggested two minutes.
Floss: Dental floss comes in a variety of options: flavored, waxed, wide tape, or floss attached to a pick for easier access. Flossing every day stimulates gum tissue while removing food debris your tooth brush failed to reach.
Dental visits: See your dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and dental exam. During the cleaning, all plaque that has accumulated since your previous visit is removed, teeth are polished to look their best, and the exam will reveal any potential problems such as decay, concerns about gum disease, or any suspicious lesions that require further investigation.
Tobacco use: In any form will have a negative impact on overall health and particularly your dentition. In addition to the appearance of dental stain, it is a documented fact that tobacco users suffer from gum disease and tooth loss in greater numbers than those who abstain.

Hydration: Many illnesses and medications can result in limited saliva production. Since saliva naturally helps to cleanse the mouth on a regular basis, if you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist can recommend products that will help increase saliva. Some patients suck or chew sugar free candy/gum to help promote more saliva.
Appearance: Your teeth may appear drab or stained as you age, but your dentist has a solution that can help you restore your beautiful smile. Teeth whitening is an option; or if teeth have sustained chips, dental bonding with a tooth colored resin may be recommended.
Keeping teeth looking great and providing excellent function as you age is attainable! Contact our office today to find out how we can help you!