{"id":963,"date":"2021-01-14T08:21:15","date_gmt":"2021-01-14T16:21:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/?p=963"},"modified":"2025-10-13T08:20:19","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T15:20:19","slug":"dental-care-tips-for-seniors-healthy-teeth-gums","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/dental-care-tips-for-seniors-healthy-teeth-gums\/","title":{"rendered":"Dental Care Tips for Seniors to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practicing proper oral hygiene and habits remains just as important for seniors as it is for toddlers. During your senior years, you may potentially face several problems concerning your dental health. However, your dental care provider can help protect your oral health from the effects of aging. While dental health can potentially deteriorate with age, getting regular dental checkups enables the dentist to quickly identify, resolve, and even prevent the problem before it can aggravate. That\u2019s why you should never take for granted the importance of oral care in the elderly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Common Senior Dental Problems<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-967 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Missing-teeth-can-affect-a-persons-facial-structure.jpg\" alt=\"Missing teeth can affect a person\u2019s facial structure\" width=\"1500\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Missing-teeth-can-affect-a-persons-facial-structure.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Missing-teeth-can-affect-a-persons-facial-structure-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Missing-teeth-can-affect-a-persons-facial-structure-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Missing-teeth-can-affect-a-persons-facial-structure-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Older individuals are more susceptible to oral health issues including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Darkened Teeth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Changes in dentin and years of consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages can contribute to tooth discolouration. Enamel erosion exposes the darker, yellower dentin to show through. If you have darkened teeth, it could be an indication of a more serious problem, which requires a professional dental checkup.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dry Mouth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 In addition to old age, certain medications and long-term use of dentures can cause dry mouth.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Root Decay<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 This dental problem usually occurs when the gum tissue starts to recede, exposing the tooth root. Since the roots do not have enamel to protect them from decay-causing acid, they become more prone to bacteria and decay.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gum Disease<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 There are several problems that can contribute to gum disease in older adults. These include plaque, long-term use of tobacco products, unhealthy diet, certain medical conditions (anemia, diabetes, and cancer), and poor-fitting dentures and bridges.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tooth Loss<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Untreated gum disease can aggravate your risk of tooth loss in your older years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Uneven Jawbone<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 When you do not replace your missing teeth, it causes the other teeth to shift into open spacing, leading to an uneven jawbone.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sensitive Teeth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Sensitivity is an age-related dental problem. The gum recession can lead to the exposure of the tooth root, which eventually causes sensitive teeth. Using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste can help improve the symptoms. However, if the problem persists, it could indicate a more serious problem, such as a fractured tooth or cavity. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Denture-Induced Stomatitis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Ill-fitting dentures, the buildup of Candida albicans, and poor oral hygiene can lead to the inflammation of the tissue underneath the denture.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Thrush<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Certain health problems or medications can cause the overgrowth of Candida albicans in the mouth.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Senior Oral Health Care Tips for Healthy Mouth, Teeth, and Gums<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking good care of your oral health becomes a significant concern for aging individuals. Just because you are susceptible to age-related dental health issues does not mean you get to experience them in the future. Keeping your mouth, gums, and teeth in optimal condition requires several common-sense dental practices.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some dental health tips for seniors to help keep their dental health in top shape:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-968 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Never-forget-to-floss-and-brush-your-teeth-twice-daily.jpg\" alt=\"Never forget to floss and brush your teeth twice daily\" width=\"1500\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Never-forget-to-floss-and-brush-your-teeth-twice-daily.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Never-forget-to-floss-and-brush-your-teeth-twice-daily-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Never-forget-to-floss-and-brush-your-teeth-twice-daily-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Never-forget-to-floss-and-brush-your-teeth-twice-daily-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Brush and Floss Daily<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Make sure to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste regularly (twice a day for at least 2 minutes). Floss the area in between your teeth to remove stuck food particles. Do this at least once a day or as necessary. When it comes to oral hygiene for the elderly with no teeth, they can use a soft, clean cloth to gently remove plaque on the surface of the gums.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing or flossing your teeth to kill harmful bacteria and prevent plaque buildup.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increase Fluoridation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and protects the enamel. Dental health professionals encourage seniors who are at risk of tooth cavities to switch to a fluoride toothpaste or incorporate a fluoride rinse into their day-to-day oral hygiene routine.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-969 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saying-no-cigarette-smoking-helps-save-your-teeth-in-the-future.jpg\" alt=\"Saying no cigarette smoking helps save your teeth \" width=\"1500\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saying-no-cigarette-smoking-helps-save-your-teeth-in-the-future.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saying-no-cigarette-smoking-helps-save-your-teeth-in-the-future-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saying-no-cigarette-smoking-helps-save-your-teeth-in-the-future-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saying-no-cigarette-smoking-helps-save-your-teeth-in-the-future-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Avoid Tobacco Products<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Smoking tobacco products can increase your risk of oral or throat cancer, as well as cardiovascular disease and other serious health problems. Also, chewing tobacco can contribute to teeth decay.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Control Sugar Intake<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Avoid eating candy, soda, sports drinks, preserved dried fruits, and starchy snacks. Make sure to brush your teeth afterwards or rinse your mouth with water to wash out the sugar.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drink More Water<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Increasing your water intake protects your teeth from potential tooth decay. Water does not only rinse away bacteria and sugar but also neutralizes the acid in your mouth. Avoid drinking soda, fruit juices, and sports drinks as they have high sugar content. These sugary drinks can increase the level of acid in your mouth, which does not only damage your enamel but also cause dental caries and ultimately, tooth loss.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-966 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Make-it-a-habit-to-brush-your-dentures-every-day.jpg\" alt=\"Make it a habit to brush your dentures every day\" width=\"1500\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Make-it-a-habit-to-brush-your-dentures-every-day.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Make-it-a-habit-to-brush-your-dentures-every-day-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Make-it-a-habit-to-brush-your-dentures-every-day-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Make-it-a-habit-to-brush-your-dentures-every-day-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Proper Denture Care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Dentures offer a long-term solution to missing teeth in older people. However, they require special care. Make sure to follow the instructions given by your dentist and report right away if you experience any problems. Visit your denturist annually to make sure that your dentures are in good condition and fit your mouth perfectly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Know Your Recommended Calcium<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Calcium helps keep your teeth healthy as you age. Dental care professionals recommend older adults to take 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily from low-fat dairy products to minimize their risk of osteoporosis, a medical condition that has a significant impact on the bone that surrounds the teeth.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Watch Out for Any Dental Side-Effects of Medication<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Some medications may cause dental health issues, such as a dry mouth. Dry mouth may be a common dental problem, but it can be harmful to your general oral health as it causes plaque to adhere to the surface of your teeth easily, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you are on medication, make sure to keep tabs on the changes in your oral health. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if you observe new dental problems.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-965 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Get-your-oral-health-checked-regularly-for-potential-problems.jpg\" alt=\"Get your oral health checked regularly \" width=\"1500\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Get-your-oral-health-checked-regularly-for-potential-problems.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Get-your-oral-health-checked-regularly-for-potential-problems-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Get-your-oral-health-checked-regularly-for-potential-problems-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Get-your-oral-health-checked-regularly-for-potential-problems-768x461.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Visit Your Dentist Regularly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Denture wearers must visit their dentist to get their mouth, teeth, and gums checked every 6 months and keep one step ahead of potential dental health issues.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With proper dental hygiene habits, regular dental visits, and a healthy lifestyle, you can keep your smile bright and healthy at any age. Working together with your trusted dentist can help you understand the risks that come with aging and reduce the likelihood of dental health problems so you can keep your teeth in tip-top condition for a lifetime.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are looking for a Sarnia dentist, turn to Lambton Family Dental. Our team of dentists offers comprehensive oral check-ups and preventative care to make you feel and look your best at every stage in your life. Call us today at (519) 344-5747 to book an appointment or a complimentary consultation.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Practicing proper oral hygiene and habits remains just as important for seniors as it is for toddlers. During your senior &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":964,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5,1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-963","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dental","category-tips"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/963","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=963"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/963\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2126,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/963\/revisions\/2126"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/964"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=963"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=963"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=963"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}