Guest Blog: Healthy Habits for Adults Over 60 to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums

Sunday 27 January 2019


As we age, we increase our risk of suffering from common oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth loss. However, it is possible to retain at least some of your natural teeth once you reach your 60s, simply by maintaining proper dental hygiene.

1. Nutritious foods

A bad diet consisting of sugars and processed foods lacks in nutritional value and is one of the key causes of tooth decay in adults over 60. A diet lacking in certain nutrients can increase the risk of infection, and the acids in sugary foods can attack teeth, leading to gum disease. You should aim to make healthy eating choices, consuming plenty of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting your sugar intake. It is also recommended that you limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption, to prevent tooth and enamel damage, and dehydration of the mouth.

2. Calcium supplements

Calcium is an essential nutrient that keeps our teeth and bones healthy. It is particularly important that adults over 60 are consuming enough calcium to prevent bone loss or osteoporosis. Calcium supplements have been proven to increase the risk of a heart attack, so it is recommended that adults should get about 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day preferably from foods. A good calcium intake can prevent issues such as osteoporosis of the jaw bone, which can lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out.

3. Brush & floss daily

A daily brushing routine is something you are hopefully already familiar with, but even more so as you age. Ensuring you take the time to clean your teeth correctly is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. With the risk of cavities increasing with age, brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, and cleaning between the teeth with dental floss, will help to keep teeth plaque-free.

4. Clean dentures daily

Many adults over 60 will require either a full or a partial denture to replace missing teeth. Dentures should fit comfortably and should be cleaned regularly to ensure good dental hygiene. Having a clean mouth is just as important when you are wearing your dentures. Aside from brushing your dentures with a toothbrush twice daily, you should use denture-cleaning tablets regularly to remove any extra bacteria. Book an appointment with a dentist or any clinic nearby you, if require any additional advice on keeping your dentures in good condition.

5. Adequate water benefits

Not many people know that drinking the right type of water can benefit your overall oral health as you age. If you are buying bottled water, always look for water containing fluoride, a natural mineral that has been proven to reduce cavities and repair the early stages of tooth decay. Most tap water should naturally contain fluoride, although some home water filters remove fluoride from the tap water, so it may be worth checking with your own water supplier. Avoid water with excessive fluoride as it can be harmful to your health.

6. Quit smoking

Aside from the numerous health issues it creates, smoking is a well-known instigator of oral health problems. Tobacco can cause tooth discolouration, reducing the appearance of a healthy smile, and bad breath, which is never pleasant. Smoking can also cause inflammation around the tooth, which, if left untreated, can lead to advanced gum disease. It is never too late to quit smoking, and by doing so, you will be giving your teeth and gums the extra care they need.

7. Visit Dentist regularly

Regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining good oral health. You should aim to have a dental check-up at least once a year, in which your dentist can examine your mouth and ensure there are no issues. If you have been experiencing any mild pain or discomfort, you have the opportunity during a check-up to discuss this with your dentist, who can diagnosis potential dental issues and provide a treatment plan.

Conclusion

Adults over the age of 60 should not neglect dental care. With the right care and attention, it is very possible to maintain good oral health throughout your entire life. Visit your dentist for additional advice on how to look after your teeth and gums.


Disclaimer: This article is contributed by a Guest Blogger. Ping of Health does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. Ping of Health disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.