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As you grow older, you need to be more cautious about your diet, habits, and hygiene practices. It also applies to your oral health, as studies show it is directly linked to your overall health.
If you are careless about your dental health, you might face cardiovascular issues or even diabetes. Nevertheless, why would you not want to care about your teeth and gums anyways!? If you live in southeastern Canada and you need a dentist to consult for your loved ones, you can contact the family dentists in Burlington, Ontario.
Best tips for dental care for the elderly
Having health conditions like diabetes or any heart disease makes it all the more necessary for older adults to care for their teeth and gums. Here are some tips that will help you practice oral hygiene more easily:
- Brush your teeth properly and regularly
This is the most basic and the easiest practice. Keeping your mouth clean is extremely necessary, whether it is a child or an adult. You can use a toothbrush with soft bristles so that you do not injure your gums while brushing. Brush in gentle circular motions twice a day, and you will be free from plaque. This prevents bacteria from invading your mouth and causing gum disease. Floss in between your teeth daily; if you cannot, ask your dentist for a special toothbrush to facilitate your brushing.
- Use fluoride toothpaste
Did you know that enamel is the strongest substance in your body? And yet, it can be damaged by the action of bacteria. Eating sugary foods or plaque in your mouth invites bacteria to proliferate. Hence, use fluoride toothpaste to make your teeth more resistant to attacks from these bacteria. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that builds your enamel and strengthens it.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash but with limits.
Using mouthwash to rinse your mouth prevents plaque buildup or washes away any bacteria in your mouth. While it is a healthy practice, some people have a habit of rinsing their mouths regularly with mouthwash. This leads to dry mouth, which older adults are already susceptible to.
- Drink lots of water.
As stated above, aged people are at risk of dry mouth, wherein the secretion of saliva reduces, making the mouth dry. Drinking water consistently at frequent intervals prevents bad breath and washes down the bacteria in the mouth.
- Clean your dentures properly.
If you use dentures, clean them properly and regularly. When you eat something, debris is left behind, and it is important to clean it. Make sure you visit your dentist or denturist regularly and get advice on how to keep your denture clean.
