As the population in the beautiful city of bend continues to age, it’s important for residents to be aware of what to expect when it comes to dental health as they get older. It can be surprising to learn how much the time spent with an dentist can change as you age, and how important it is to make sure your regular oral health care is within best practices for your age. As an older adult living in Bend, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to maintaining good dental health.
Common Dental Issues for the Aging Population in Bend
As you age, so do your teeth and the structures surrounding your teeth. This can lead to a number of common dental issues that are frequently seen in the aging population in Bend. One of the most common dental problems experienced by older adults is dry mouth, which can be irritating and make it difficult to eat, drink, and speak. Tooth decay, gum disease, and infections are also a common issue, which tends to occur more frequently as an individual gets older and oral health care may not be as rigorous.
Another common dental issue for the aging population in Bend is damage to the jawbone and various tissues. This can result from poor oral hygiene, as well as certain medications, accidents, and conditions like osteoporosis. This topic in itself adjusting on how to best prevent and treat damage to the jaw should be an article of its own.
Preventative Dental Care for the Aging Population in Bend
It’s important for older adults living in Bend to implement preventative measures when it comes to oral health in order to help stave off some of the common dental problems associated with aging. This means making sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day, use fluoride toothpaste, and floss regularly. It’s also recommended to use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep the mouth free of harmful bacteria, as well as to drink plenty of water and limit the intake of sugary and acidic food and drinks.
Another important preventative measure for older adults is to visit the dentist regularly. This usually means scheduling a dental check-up every six months for a full cleaning, examination, and x-rays. The dentist can also help to monitor any issues that may develop within the mouth as an individual gets older and may recommend certain treatments or preventative measures to help halt an issue in its tracks.
Dental Treatments for the Aging Population in Bend
In addition to preventative measures, older adults may need to consider certain dental treatments in order to maintain optimal oral health as they get older. For certain issues, such as dry mouth and gum disease, the dentist may recommend a number of different treatments, such as the use of special toothpastes and mouthwashes, laser therapy, or in some cases even oral surgery. It’s important to talk to your dentist and review all the treatment options in order to stay on top of any oral health issue and keep your mouth healthy.
Other treatments that may be necessary for older adults include the use of dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures in order to replace damaged or missing teeth. The types of dental treatments a person will need depends on a number of factors, such as the condition of their oral health, the treatment goals, and the amount of bone and tissue left in the mouth. Again, it’s best to discuss all the treatment options available with the dentist in order to make an informed decision.
Maintaining Optimal Dental Health as an Older Adult in Bend
As an older adult living in Bend, it’s important to be aware of the dental issues that are common among the aging population and take the necessary steps to keep your mouth healthy. This includes implementing preventative measures, as well as visiting the dentist regularly for a cleaning, examination, and any necessary treatments. Making sure that your oral health is within best practices for your age in addition to the general health tips for older adults can help you maintain a healthy smile and a happy, healthy life.
Whether you’re in your early 50s or in your 100s, taking the time to keep your teeth and gums in good health is an important step to living a long, healthy and happy life in Bend. Remember, the more you take care of your mouth now, the more likely it is to remain healthy, so take the time to make sure your oral health routines are where they need to be.