If you ask yourself, "How can I care for my teeth as I age?" the answer is to do these five essential things consistently throughout your adult life:
While you're at it, purchase brushes, toothpaste, floss, rinse, and other products with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal to ensure high quality. And you want the very best products to take care of your oral health.
The older you get, the more susceptible you are to oral health issues. Luckily, you can help head off these issues with a consistent oral health care routine (see above). But if oral issues arise, your dental professionals can help with diagnoses and treatments.
Your oral care routine doesn't just save your teeth. Your home dental regimen could help you prevent these types of gum disease:
The health of your gums might also affect your overall health – or be a sign of a serious health problem. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) reports links between gum disease and other diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and cancer.
Not only can you develop cavities in previously healthy teeth, but you can get cavities around existing fillings (called recurrent decay). And decay on the root surfaces of the teeth is more common in adults.
When gums tissue recedes as a result of periodontal disease or from wear and tear caused by improper toothbrushing technique, the root of the tooth becomes exposed. Since the root isn't protected by enamel, it's prone to produce sensitivity or pain to cold/hot foods and beverages. In severe cases, cold air and sensitivity to sour/sweet drinks and foods can occur.
If you experience sensitivity, try a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. If the problem persists, see your dentist, as the sensitivity might indicate a more serious condition, such as a cavity, a cracked or fractured tooth, or nerve exposure.
Whether due to decay, disease, or trauma, damage to your teeth more likely will occur the longer you live. If that happens, there are fixes to restore your smile:
Tooth whitening products and procedures depend on the type of stain you wish to remove.
External (Surface Enamel) Stains: To remove most teeth stains caused by food, wine, tobacco, and other substances:
If you've had surface stains for years, you might want to have your teeth professionally whitened to remove these more stubborn external stains.
Internal (Enamel) Stains: These stains can be professionally bleached, bonded with veneers, or capped with crowns. While each method is safe and effective, your dentist can recommend the treatment most appropriate for you. Professionally treating the stains is dependent on the state of your teeth and the results you wish to achieve.
In addition to positively impacting your overall health, proper nutrition is necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Eating a well-balanced diet gives your gum tissues and teeth the important nutrients and minerals they need to stay strong and resist infections. Yay!
Since we're all about your overall and oral health, you want to ensure you're aware that:
So, there you have it: the basics of helping you look after your teeth and gums as an adult. And the best part: With a consistent oral health care routine and a healthy diet, your teeth are more likely to remain relatively white and decay-free. And wouldn't it be wonderful if you can go from young adult to senior citizen with your healthy, original teeth?!
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
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ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine