How to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy as You Get Older?

How to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy as You Get Older?

Nestled within Chatswood’s vibrant, bustling hub, with its excellent restaurants and fabulous shopping, maintaining a radiant smile has never been more critical. Around 25,000 people in the region and at least 1/4th of the population are above 50 years old and must visit a Chatswood dentist regularly. As you age, you must prioritise your dental care and adopt habits that ensure your teeth and gums remain in tip-top condition. So, how can you keep your smiles shining bright, even as the years pass?

Embrace a Tooth-friendly Diet

A significant aspect of maintaining oral health is being mindful of what you consume. Your diet directly impacts the strength of your teeth and gums. Foods high in sugar and acid may weaken the enamel, while crunchy fruits and vegetables can help to keep your teeth clean. 

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, will bolster your teeth’s natural defences and support healthy gum tissue. 

Master the Art of Brushing and Flossing

As you age, dexterity can become an issue, making it harder to maintain proper dental hygiene. However, various tools and techniques are available to make brushing and flossing more manageable. Electric toothbrushes can help those with limited mobility to effectively clean their teeth, while water flossers or interdental brushes can make flossing more accessible. Don’t forget to brush for two minutes at least twice daily and floss daily to keep plaque and bacteria at bay.

Stay Hydrated and Salivate

Saliva is your mouth’s natural defence system, neutralising harmful acids and washing away food particles. However, as you age, your saliva production may decrease due to medication, hormonal changes, or other factors. It’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. You can also stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free lozenges.

Don’t Neglect Your Dentures

Proper care and maintenance are crucial for those who wear dentures to keep them in optimal condition. Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleanser. 

Giving your gums a break is essential by removing your dentures for at least four hours each day, preferably while you sleep. Also, remember to visit your Chatswood dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.

 Regular check-ups and Professional Cleanings

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, and this couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to oral health. Regular check-ups with your trusted Chatswood dentist can help detect and address potential issues before they escalate. Professional cleanings remove tartar build-up, which cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Embrace the Power of Fluoride

Fluoride is a powerful ally in the fight against tooth decay, and it helps to strengthen enamel and can even reverse early signs of decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and consider incorporating a fluoride mouth rinse into your daily routine. Also, ask your dentist if professional fluoride treatments might benefit your oral health.

Wrapping up 

In conclusion, maintaining excellent oral health as you age combines consistent dental care, a balanced diet, and a proactive approach to potential issues. So, go ahead and confidently flash your pearly whites as you explore the vibrant streets of Chatswood, knowing that you’re taking the best care of your oral health.

Author Name – Ramandeep

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *