Dental Benefits, Aging and Dental Care.
Seniors do not really have any extra at home dental care habits to maintain unless advise by their dentist. However, it is important to know that as we age there are subtle to more serious changes that can occur in our mouth, gums and teeth. Teeth may lose their whiteness and darken in color, and plaque builds up on teeth faster as we grow older. The risk of gum disease also is higher as we age.
If left untreated, gum disease may also damage the bone that holds teeth in place, possibly causing tooth loss. Other factors contributing to gum disease are dentures that do not fit, poor oral hygiene, illnesses and many medications. However by seeing your dentist at least twice a year (or as often as advised by your dentist) for a dental check up and professional cleaning you help to maintain good oral health.