Everyone deserves a healthy smile. Your Las Vegas dentist, Dr. Hadley, and his team, are devoted to your health and the longevity of your teeth from age six to 60. We’ve put together our best tips for keeping a healthy smile into your 60s and beyond. What are the steps you should take every single day to take care of your oral health?
Just a Handful of Healthy Habits Will Preserve Your Teeth
Spending just five minutes in the morning and evening on your teeth will help ensure your smile for a lifetime. The two most important things you can do every day are to brush and floss your teeth.
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day is the first step you can take to preserve your teeth at age 60. Using a soft bristled brush with a small head to get all the nooks and crannies of your mouth is just as important as you age as it was when you were younger.
As adults age, they are more prone to gum disease and cavities. Part of the problem is dry mouth, which is often associated with the prescription medications that we take as we age. Flossing and brushing will help stimulate the gums, while brushing will help keep your teeth cleaner and prevent cavities.
As you age, you may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold beverages. Look for the ADA seal on toothpaste that helps prevent tooth sensitivity.
Dentures and Oral Health
Many people over the age of 60 have either partial or full dentures. Germs and bacteria can stick to dentures in the same way they cling to your teeth. Make sure you clean your dentures every day with some of the over-the-counter cleaners designed to do this work for you. Certainly, do not use other household cleaners or even toothpaste for dentures. These substances are not made for dentures and could damage their surface.
It’s important to let your mouth rest if you have dentures. We recommend removing the full or partial denture for at least four hours of every 24. This will keep your gums healthier and prevent you from developing any irritations from these appliances.
See Your Las Vegas Dentist Twice a Year
Your twice-yearly dental visit gets even more important as you age. That’s because the nerves in your teeth shrink as you get older. So you may miss the pain of an early cavity until it is fully formed and has damaged your teeth. Too, your Las Vegas dentist will be alert to early signs of more serious health issues, which could show up first in your teeth and gums. If you’re over 60 and scheduling your check up, make sure you bring:
- A full list of the medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter remedies and vitamins.
- A list of your doctors and other health care providers.
- Emergency contacts or power of attorney information.
- Dental insurance or Medicaid cards.
- Your dentures.
Dr. Hadley is your Las Vegas dentist, committed to helping keep your smile healthy throughout your life. Call us today to schedule your next visit.