Oral Health Tips

Is it inevitable for people to lose their teeth as they get older? Many people believe that to be true, but in fact, it’s a persistent myth. It’s normal to lose your baby teeth, but losing your adult teeth is not a normal part of the aging process. In fact, if you take care of your teeth, you can maintain good oral health throughout your lifetime. We’ve got some tips to help you make that happen.

• First, embrace fluoride. Some people are skeptical about fluoride because they believe it to be dangerous. Misinterpreting data, people claim that fluoride causes everything from dementia to bone cancer. In fact, every major health organization is in agreement that fluoride is beneficial. By adding fluoride to the community water systems, the United States has reduced oral health problems significantly. Drinking fluoridated water and brushing with fluoride toothpaste protects teeth from decay.
• Make good oral hygiene a habit. Brush your teeth for two minutes, two times a day. Floss between your teeth at least once a day, and follow it up by rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash. Visit your dentist every six months, so that any problems with your mouth can be caught early.
• Just say no to tobacco. Don’t use any tobacco products at all. If you are a smoker, quit. If you’re having trouble quitting, talk to your doctor and get some help.
• Limit your alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol greatly increases your risk of oral cancer.
• Keep diabetes under control. Diabetes can increase your risk of gum disease and other complications. At the same time, periodontal disease can increase blood sugar.
• Pack your diet with nutrients. Limit sugar, eat nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables, along with plenty of protein and calcium. Drink water to stay hydrated.
• Try to avoid dry mouth. If you’re taking medication that causes dry mouth, ask for a different medication. If it is unavoidable, drink plenty of water and chew sugarless gum. Saliva helps keep your mouth’s pH healthy.
• See your dentist as soon as possible if there’s a problem. Sudden, changes in taste or smell should be reported immediately.

If you’re a caregiver for an older person, assist in brushing and flossing if the person can’t do it independently. Schedule regular dental exams for the person in your care, and be aware of the way any medication may be affecting his or her oral health. Often, medication can impede a senior’s ability to practice good oral hygiene and can cause dental issues like dry mouth.

If you need a dentist in New York, consider Park 56 Dental Group, where we provide personalized, quality dental care in a spa-like environment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.