Growing up, we’ve constantly been reminded to take care of our teeth and gums. These habits should continue as people age, which is why it’s essential for the elderly to find a reliable dentist for seniors in Citrus County. People have this misconception that they can neglect their oral health when they reach a certain age since their teeth will fall out anyway.
Contrary to popular belief, tooth loss can happen regardless of age. Failure to maintain proper dental hygiene practices is a huge factor contributing to premature tooth loss. Elderly dental care is essential because their age group is more susceptible to oral health problems.
How Should Seniors Care for Their Oral Health?
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Back in their younger years, work and other social obligations usually got in the way of dental appointments, but now that seniors are retired, they can have all the time in the world to visit the dental office. Regular dental appointments are an integral aspect of senior dental health. They become increasingly susceptible to oral health problems if they fail to show up during their appointments. There’s also a tendency for existing problems to worsen. Seniors must strive to keep up with their dental exams and routine teeth cleanings at least twice a year or as their dentist advises. These visits also allow their dentist to talk to them about their oral health and how they can improve it. Furthermore, oral exams enable dentists to check their mouths for signs of problems, so they can be diagnosed early and treated before they turn serious.Brush Teeth Regularly
You can’t escape from brushing. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride-based toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance at least twice a day, preferably 30 minutes after your meal. Brushing should be done slowly and gently for approximately two minutes. Research shows that brushing for two minutes equally dividing the time into all four quadrants is enough to effectively remove bacteria and plaque from turning into tartar. The simple task of brushing twice a day can make a significant improvement in the elderly’s oral health. Some simple rules to follow when brushing are to find a brush that has soft bristles and to use gentle back-and-forth strokes. Brushing too hard and using a hard-bristled toothbrush can lead to enamel erosion and gum recession. The elderly may choose between a manual or an electric toothbrush. However, many dentists prefer they use electric toothbrushes to improve their brushing techniques.Flossing Is Still a Must
Flossing will always be an essential part of an oral care routine. Unfortunately, many people are not interested in flossing because they find the technique tiring and tedious. While it’s true that it may be more complicated than brushing, the good news is that with constant practice, they will eventually get the hang of it. As a family member, encourage and motivate your elderly loved ones to keep flossing. Flossing will help dislodge food particles and plaque hiding between your teeth. Removing them will reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss.