Seniors at Corona
Teeth for Life
Dental care is for life. As we age, so do our teeth and extra care must be taken to ensure good oral health.
Keep in mind that restorative fillings are not as smooth as the surfaces of natural teeth, allowing bacteria and debris build up quicker. If damaged, former restorations are vulnerable to decay.
Grinding of teeth can cause the gums to recede (pull away) from the teeth as well or the gums will simply recede due to old age and genetics. Recessions can begin to expose nerve endings and once exposed, the roots may cause the patient to experience sensitivity to hot or cold. Tooth roots have no layer of enamel to protect them and so are much more vulnerable to cavities.
Gum Disease is also a major oral health concern.it can be painless and not noticed until it worsens. Being a slow process that can be prevented with proper treatment. If left untreated, its later stages will result in tooth loss and structural bone damage. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health at all ages.
Any dentures or dental implants should be monitored by your dentist ensuring proper function and minimal discomfort. If medications are involved, lack of saliva flow can result in dry mouth (see our April 2013 Word Of Mouth article on Dry Mouth on the Articles page) or gum tissue growth.
Caring for Natural Teeth requires regular check-ups and good oral hygiene and it is imperative that you continue to care for your teeth at home on a regular basis by brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist.
Brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Do not brush too aggressively though. Floss at least once a day which can be done while reading, watching TV or listening to music, podcasts or audio books (that last two being my favourite). Floss only the teeth you plan on keeping.
Arthritic patients may find it difficulty in brushing or flossing comfortably. Larger toothbrushes maneuver easier by wrapping a sponge or some tinfoil around the handle. Bicycle grips have also helped may also be helpful to provide comfort if applied to the toothbrushes handle. Electric toothbrushes tend to be larger and more comfortable.
Try plastic floss holders available at your local drug store or experiment with dental tape that can be easier to hold onto
If you do lose a tooth it may be replaced with an artificial restoration. Not replacing missing teeth can cause further damage the remaining teeth allowing them to shift out of place to fill the space. Once out of alignment, cleaning becomes more difficult, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. It is best to tend to them sooner than later.
Smiles should last a lifetime!
Keep in mind that restorative fillings are not as smooth as the surfaces of natural teeth, allowing bacteria and debris build up quicker. If damaged, former restorations are vulnerable to decay.
Grinding of teeth can cause the gums to recede (pull away) from the teeth as well or the gums will simply recede due to old age and genetics. Recessions can begin to expose nerve endings and once exposed, the roots may cause the patient to experience sensitivity to hot or cold. Tooth roots have no layer of enamel to protect them and so are much more vulnerable to cavities.
Gum Disease is also a major oral health concern.it can be painless and not noticed until it worsens. Being a slow process that can be prevented with proper treatment. If left untreated, its later stages will result in tooth loss and structural bone damage. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health at all ages.
Any dentures or dental implants should be monitored by your dentist ensuring proper function and minimal discomfort. If medications are involved, lack of saliva flow can result in dry mouth (see our April 2013 Word Of Mouth article on Dry Mouth on the Articles page) or gum tissue growth.
Caring for Natural Teeth requires regular check-ups and good oral hygiene and it is imperative that you continue to care for your teeth at home on a regular basis by brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist.
Brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Do not brush too aggressively though. Floss at least once a day which can be done while reading, watching TV or listening to music, podcasts or audio books (that last two being my favourite). Floss only the teeth you plan on keeping.
Arthritic patients may find it difficulty in brushing or flossing comfortably. Larger toothbrushes maneuver easier by wrapping a sponge or some tinfoil around the handle. Bicycle grips have also helped may also be helpful to provide comfort if applied to the toothbrushes handle. Electric toothbrushes tend to be larger and more comfortable.
Try plastic floss holders available at your local drug store or experiment with dental tape that can be easier to hold onto
If you do lose a tooth it may be replaced with an artificial restoration. Not replacing missing teeth can cause further damage the remaining teeth allowing them to shift out of place to fill the space. Once out of alignment, cleaning becomes more difficult, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. It is best to tend to them sooner than later.
Smiles should last a lifetime!
