You are never too old to take care of your teeth and gums. In fact, the importance of oral health becomes even more apparent as you grow older. Older adults tend to have more sensitive teeth, receding gums, and weak jawbones, making it challenging to maintain a great smile. However, there are various ways in which you can protect your pearly whites and prevent further decay as you age. Here are five tips for maintaining a perfect smile as you age:
Brush and floss regularly.
Brushing your teeth is the first step to maintaining a healthy smile. Make it a habit to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and make sure to use soft bristles as they are gentler on the gums. Also, by following the ‘two-minute rule’, ensure you are brushing at the right time. Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. If you don’t floss, you will be leaving out 40% of your teeth’s surface area, which can cause plaque and bacterial build-up.
Teeth whitening
If you are concerned about maintaining your smile as you age, you may want to look into teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a simple, cost-effective, and non-invasive treatment that can work wonders for your smile. It is also an excellent option for those more sensitive to pain. Teeth whitening will not only give you a brighter smile but can also help you protect your teeth against further decay. To whiten your teeth naturally, you can start by changing your diet and drinking water to reduce staining. There are also some natural teeth whitening products that you can use at home.
Adult braces
We all remember the awkwardness of having braces as a kid, but did you know that some adults are still wearing them?. You may want to talk to your dentist about braces if you have misaligned teeth. Wearing clear braces can be a great solution if you are concerned about your smile’s alignment as you age. You can expect to wear braces for a period ranging from 6 to 18 months. When choosing to wear braces, remember that they will impact your daily activities such as brushing and eating. Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure your braces are correctly fitted.
Filling renewal
As you age, your teeth naturally recede, making it more challenging to keep them free of decay. However, there are ways to help protect your teeth’s natural structure and prevent decay. One way is to replace old fillings with newer ones. This is known as ‘filling renewal’, which can be done to protect teeth at risk of being removed. However, for teeth that are beyond repair, your dentist may suggest getting Dental Implants in Colorado Springs instead. Discuss with your dentist which treatment is best for you.
Wear mouth guards
Mouth guards can protect your teeth from damage, including tooth grinding. This is especially important as you age since your jawbone becomes weaker and more susceptible to problems such as cracks and fractures. Even if you don’t grind your teeth now, you may start doing so as you get older since tooth grinding can be caused by anxiety or stress. The best way to avoid any issues is by wearing a mouth guard while sleeping. You can also choose to wear one while awake if you feel your teeth are at risk of grinding. A mouth guard can prevent damage to your teeth while you sleep. It covers the back of your teeth, where you’re most likely to grind, and prevents damage to those teeth. Mouth guards can be used if you grind your teeth during the day or have a habit of clenching your teeth.
