Keep Your Smile Young

The average American is living longer and in better health than previous generation, thanks to advances in medical technology and better access to health insurance! Life expectancy from birth is currently at an all-time high of nearly 78 years. There have also been substantial improvements in oral health, and adults 65 and older are keeping more of their natural teeth for their entire lives than previous generations. It’s important to continue practicing good oral health, as there are so many options available to keep your teeth healthy and strong, even in your later years.

Dental hygiene is important, even for those seniors who have lost their regular teeth. Besides making sure that dentures and other dental prosthetics fit properly, your dentist can catch life-threatening diseases like oral cancer earlier when they are at a more treatable stage. This is why you should make sure you’re still visiting our office every 3-6 months for cleanings and check-ups. Gums are notorious for wearing away during the aging process, leaving the root of the tooth exposed – hence the expression “long in the tooth!” This is a concern, because the root of your tooth is much softer and more prone to dental decay than the enamel that covers it. And, if you’re prescribed any one of several hundred medications that can cause dry mouth (a decrease in saliva), you should be especially careful because a lack of saliva brings a much higher risk for tooth decay.

Once individuals retire they sometimes neglect to purchase ongoing dental coverage. Medicare does not provide dental coverage but individual plans are available for purchase. You can also check to see if membership in any national organizations or associations qualifies you to purchase dental benefits.

Although, we are a pediatric dental office in Dover, NH; we hope this information is valuable for parents. Help your child at a young age develop good oral habit today.