Aging can come with a slew of side effects that require you to pay extra attention to your body and its function. Tooth loss is extremely common and often results in older people needing dentures or dental implants to be able to speak and eat properly. Fortunately, advances in the dental industry have allowed more people to retain their natural teeth.

Here are some ways that you can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful as you get old:

Healthy gums

Your teeth need healthy gums and a strong jaw to stay in place. Periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of tooth loss–it affects the areas around your teeth through jawbone deterioration, receding gums, or gingivitis. Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth and make them more prone to infection and decay, eventually resulting in tooth loss.

Age is not the sole cause of periodontal disease–it’s because of plaque building up on the teeth for years, going unnoticed and worsening with time.

Regular flossing and brushing

Regular flossing and brushing become more important with age, especially as the enamel of your teeth wears away with time, leaving them susceptible to decay and plaque.

Most dentists recommend brushing your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush at least twice a day, or even more if you love snacking on sugary treats. Make sure to stay away from hard-bristle toothbrushes since they’re very tough on the gums and can lead to a receding gum line.

Your toothbrush should be at a 45-degree angle against your teeth to ensure that your gums also get cleaned. If you have any physical disabilities, such as arthritis, and find it difficult to brush your teeth, try using an electric toothbrush to decrease the strain.

If you haven’t been flossing, it’s time to add it to your daily routine. Around a third of your teeth go untouched when you only use a toothbrush, which can leave bacteria in your mouth that eventually leads to gum disease and tooth decay. Your floss should be able to scrape side of your teeth and reach the gums to remove plaque effectively.

Healthy diet

Your oral health depends on maintaining a healthy diet. Processed and sugary foods tend to stick to the teeth and become a breeding ground for bacteria and plaque. Opt for vegetables and fruits that contain healthy minerals and vitamins to strengthen your teeth.

Including some kind of low-fat dairy in your daily diet can also increase your calcium and protein intake, improving your overall bone and teeth health.

Get regular dental check-ups

It’s best to get a professional oral check-up every 6 months to ensure that your teeth are in tip-top condition. Experienced cosmetic dentists such as Dr. Allan Baldawi at Dr Be Smiles can assess your overall dental health by examining your mouth for signs of bone disease, cancer, oral infections, and gum disease. Our compassionate team specializes in providing instant relief through a variety of same-day services such as root canals, teeth deep cleaning, and dental implants.

Book an appointment today! You can find out more details here.