Tips To Maintain An Older Mouth

Through each stage of our life, there are different concerns that affect our mouths. Throughout our youth, there are of course issues concerning the growth of adult teeth. Replacing your first set alone has an immense amount of different ways to become a problem. 

But when we get older, we may feel that our mouths are set. Major changes have concluded, and it is all about maintenance. But it is important to recognize that each stage of life has its strengths and weaknesses, and your oral health is no exception. Today, your Gary, IN dentist speaks about the need to monitor your teeth after the age of 50, and some ways to stay safe!

Recognize Your Age

Our bone density drops significantly once we hit the age of 50. Due to the lowering of bone mass in osteoporosis, the mouth is significantly affected. Our teeth are held firmly into place using our jawbone. When bone mass shrinks or recedes, this allows the tooth to become loose, and often falls out. Even if the tooth remains in place, the pocket left due to the reduction can gather bacteria. This spot can be difficult to clean. It may be in an area that is hard to see or access. Or you might become worried about losing the tooth by touching it too much.

But leaving the tooth alone will only exacerbate the situation, and if you are that worried about your tooth, it is best to see a dentist about the best way to save it. Also, patients may break their jaw due to the low density. Even small breaks along the jaw can loosen teeth, or lead to areas prone to decay.

Take Steps

Knowing this, it is important to treat yourself properly, as it can make all the difference as we age. The first thing to remember is to maintain a healthy diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables. The more diversity in your produce, the better for your oral health, usually. We depend on many different vitamins and nutrients in order to keep our mouths safe.

With this, we also want to make sure that we consume at least 1000 mg of calcium daily. If your diet cannot support this, you may need a supplement. But ideally, it would come from a food source. Also, 600 IU of Vitamin D is necessary to maintain strong skeletal matter. This can also come from a supplement.

And like with any other patient, brush your teeth fully twice every day, as well as flossing regularly and using an oral rinse. Smoking and alcohol consumption may also contribute to problems, so please quit if you possibly can.

ABOUT YOUR GARY, IN, DENTIST:

As a native of northwest Indiana, Nicholas Cain, DDS, is dedicated to providing excellent general, preventive, and family dentistry services to the community that raised him, welcoming patients from Gary, Miller, Miller Beach, and all surrounding areas. To schedule your appointment, call Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, today at 219-938-2637. You can also email our office at info@healthysmilesnwi.com.