Oral Health Tips for Baby Boomers

By Downey Dental Pro | Published on October 10, 2011 | 0 Comments

Older patients and younger patients oftentimes have very different oral health needs and concerns, and it is important to work with a dentist who understands the differences that make everyone unique. The experts at Downey Dental Pro look at each patient as an individual with unique issues that need to be addressed. This is especially important for patients in the older generations.

As people get older, their teeth become more sensitive and prone to decay. Senior citizens are also more likely to experience dry mouth and certain types of oral cancers. Medications that are used to treat diabetes and arthritis can cause additional oral health concerns, and daily mouth care can become more difficult as people’s dexterity begins to wane. Because of this, a dentist in Downey will usually recommend that patients ages 60 and up come to the dentist’s office at least once every three months, as opposed to once every six months for younger folks. These additional appointments go a long way in catching instances of cavities, decay, and even root exposure as early as possible.

A dentist in Downey is also likely to recommend that older patients take especially good care of their teeth through proper oral hygiene. Although most people realize they need to be brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, fewer people understand how important it is to rinse with a fluoride-based mouthwash in order to prevent cavities and sensitivities.

By taking small steps and meeting with their dentist in Downey on a regular basis, patients can significantly improve their oral health and increase the chances that they will maintain strong, beautiful smiles for many years into the future.

At Downey Dental Pro, the experts explain that many older patients are concerned with how to take care of their dentures in a way that will ensure they continue looking good and fitting well. Patients with dentures need to understand that their dentures are supposed to be replaced at least once every five years. The reason for this is has to do with the tissue, which is what supports the dentures. That tissue will change over time, and the dentures themselves will have to be updated by a dentist in Downey to reflect these changes.

Ideally, patients with dentures should be making sure to take their dentures out before bed each night and to remove their dentures after each and every meal. If a patient has remaining teeth, then he should brush his or her teeth and clean the dentures at the same time. Dentures should be left in a containing with water, denture cleaning solution, and possible a denture tablet each night. In the morning, patients can expect to wake up to clean dentures that look great and fit well.

*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

What People Are Saying.