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Taking Care Of Your Aging Teeth: Oral Care Tips For Seniors

You want to make sure your teeth last you a lifetime. Making sure to brush twice a day, flossing after meals, and using the right type of mouthwash is a great start, but proper oral care goes beyond these few things. You also want to make sure you get in to see your dentist according to their advice and more often if you feel you are experiencing dental issues. Another part of helping your teeth remain healthy while you age includes knowing what to look for with regards to warning signs. This article will help you spot some of those signs that indicate you should be sitting in that dental chair soon:

Recognize the possible signs of gingivitis

The mouth contains bacteria that can wage war on your gums. If it wins the war, then the result will be you suffering from gingivitis. If gingivitis isn't treated promptly and completely, then it can lead to periodontal disease which can really damage your teeth and lead to health problems. Some of the red flags of gingivitis include red gums, swollen gums, bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth that brushing and using mouthwash won't cure, sensitive gums, and bleeding when you brush your teeth. If you start to notice any of these things occurring, make an appointment for as soon as you can get in to see your dentist.

You are having a hard time brushing

If you are struggling to brush your teeth due to arthritis, then you may notice more plaque on your teeth, bad breath or even the development of cavities. When you struggle to care properly for your teeth, then you may want to go in more often to have professional cleanings done. It's also a good idea to switch to an electric toothbrush which will do most of the moving for you. You can find electric toothbrushes that have thicker handles even, and this makes it easier for you to grip them with arthritis. Adding the use of a water pick to your daily oral care can make up for having a hard time flossing, which you will also likely experience if you have arthritis.

You start to suffer from a dry mouth

As you age, your salivary glands may stop producing as much saliva, and this puts you at a greater risk for dental problems as well. You want to see your dentist for help. There may be medications they can give you that will help, and they can offer you advice as well. You also want to make sure you are drinking more water, try chewing sugarless gum. You should also stop using products that contain nicotine, excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine.

Contact a dental office like A Q Denture Services for more information and assistance.