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We all know that with age comes change, but did you know that aging can have a negative impact on your oral health? Often times we believe that we’ll be fine if we continue doing the things we’ve always done without consequence. However, that’s not always the case with aging bodies. In fact, the older we get the less likely we are to bounce back or recover as fast as we use to.
So how does aging affect our dental health? And what can we do to maintain our mouths healthy? Let’s take a look.
Effects of Aging
The effects of aging on the human body can be tough for some people to accept. Yet, it’s a natural process that everyone must go through sooner or later. Unfortunately, some individuals may begin experiencing issues with their dental health as a result.
Some health issues that can be tied to aging include:
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
It’s important to note that as you age, nerves in your teeth can reduce in size – making your teeth less sensitive to infections or cavities. This can then worsen any undiagnosed dental problems because you can’t feel them in your teeth due to lack of sensitivity.
Prevention
Unfortunately we can’t prevent aging so let’s cross that one out! But we can maintain our oral health with proper care and good dental hygiene practices such as flossing and brushing. When choosing a toothbrush, individuals can either opt for a power toothbrush or a traditional one with soft bristles in order to avoid damage to the enamel.
In addition to good hygiene practices, individuals who smoke should consider quitting the habit. Smoking can result in severe consequences such as gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and of course, lung cancer. If you wear dentures or any appliances, cleaning them thoroughly after you use them will help keep your teeth healthy longer.
Visiting your dentists on a regular basis will also help you maintain good oral health. Seeking professional treatment allows individuals to get deep cleanings and treatment they wouldn’t otherwise be able to do on their own. Going to the dentist will also help in diagnosing or treating existing dental problems before they worsen.
Visit Torrington Dental Care Today
If you’re in need of professional dental treatment, contact Dr. Kuzmin at Torrington Dental Care for an appointment. Our dental office in Torrington, CT will ensure that you get the treatment you need in order to help keep your mouth healthy as you age gracefully. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
