Dental Care is something everyone needs to practice every day, but most forget to do so. It is very important because prevention against tooth decay and cavities is important for overall health. We also have the tendency to ignore a cavity or damage to the tooth until it becomes an apparent problem and leads to major dental problems like loss of teeth, needing corrective dentistry, and even blindness. Here are some dental tips for seniors that can help us maintain our oral and overall health.
Make sure you use a fluoridated toothpaste If you want to prevent cavities from forming, then you need to be making use of a fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of the tooth and also prevents the formation of hard mineral deposits on the surface of your teeth. If you want to brush more gently but effectively, you can opt for soft-bristled bristles, especially for older people. The flossing technique should also be used while brushing.
Brush your gums at least twice daily This practice will help in preventing tooth decay and plaque. You can check whether your gums are feeling dry by placing a finger on them and if you feel a slight sting, immediately stop your brushing and apply a soothing gel. For sensitive teeth, use gauze pads in between the teeth and gums to ensure you don't irritate the gums. Be aware of foods high in acidic content that can lead to erosion and cavities. Your brush should also be kept away from acidic foods.
Be gentle on the gums You have to know that the gums are very sensitive. Any pressure applied to the gums can cause irritation leading to bleeding. This can be avoided by gently brushing your teeth. Instead of applying too much force while brushing, try applying a circular motion on the brush head to ease your gums.
Do not apply too much pressure When brushing, avoid applying too much pressure as this may wear off the protective coating on the gums. Instead of using hard-bristled brushes, use soft bristle brushes. These help to alleviate friction between the brush head and the gums. When you are done, make sure you rinse your mouth with warm water to make sure you kill any germs.
Take care of your teeth There are dental tips that can help you in taking good care of your teeth. The most important thing is that you should always brush your teeth after every meal to prevent food and tartar from building up around your teeth. You must also make sure that you take good care of your teeth by flossing and using mouthwash. In addition, regular trips to the dentist for dental check-ups will be highly beneficial as it helps prevent tooth decay.
You should visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups You must also make sure that you get regular dental checkups and cleanings to ensure that your mouth remains healthy. Some of the dental tips include having regular dental x-rays, cleaning your mouth twice a year, and regular checkups. If you do not visit your dentist regularly, you will be likely to have a lot of dental problems in the future.
Finally, make sure you avoid smoking If you smoke, you must quit because smoking can cause a lot of damage to your teeth and mouth. Smoking can cause discoloration, erosion, formation of cavities, and even gum disease. You can easily stop smoking through nicotine patches, gum, sprays, and other medications available in the market. If you are unable to stop smoking, then you must consult your dentist to find out ways and methods to care for your teeth. For more information, you can consult dentists who are well-experienced in providing dental care and give you valuable dental tips.