Aging and Your Smile

Posted on 3/3/2025 by Alyce

A dentist consults a shade match with a senior patient during a dental care visit.

A healthy, beautiful smile is important at every stage of life. But as we age, our oral health needs change. Understanding these changes and taking steps to care for your teeth and gums can help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Common Age-Related Dental Issues

Several common dental issues can affect older adults. These include:

•	Gum disease: This is the most common dental problem among adults. It is caused by plaque buildup, which can irritate and inflame the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can damage the teeth and supporting bone, leading to tooth loss.
•	Tooth decay: Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that break down the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. This can lead to cavities, which can cause pain and sensitivity.
•	Dry mouth: This condition occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva. Saliva helps to protect the teeth from decay and gum disease. Dry mouth can be caused by medications, medical conditions, and aging.
•	Tooth sensitivity: This occurs when the dentin, the layer of the tooth beneath the enamel, becomes exposed. This can be caused by receding gums, worn tooth enamel, or cracked teeth.
•	Oral cancer: The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Regular dental checkups can help to detect oral cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile as You Age

There are several things you can do to maintain a healthy smile as you age. These include:

•	Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay.
•	Floss daily. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.
•	See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check for any problems and provide you with professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
•	Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet is important for overall health, including oral health. Choose foods that are low in sugar and high in nutrients.
•	Avoid tobacco use. Tobacco use is a major risk factor for gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health problems.
•	Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your mouth moist and prevent dry mouth.

Additional Tips for Seniors

In addition to the general tips above, there are a few additional things that seniors can do to keep their smiles healthy. These include:

•	Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help to protect your gums from irritation.
•	Use a fluoride rinse. This can help to strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.
•	Be aware of the side effects of medications. Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Talk to your doctor or dentist about ways to manage dry mouth.
•	If you wear dentures, be sure to clean them regularly. Dentures can harbor bacteria and plaque, just like natural teeth.

Conclusion

Taking care of your oral health is important at every age. By following the tips above, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

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Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, 1244 N Greenfield Road, Suite 105, Mesa, AZ 85205 ^ (480) 939-5818 ^ drkindt.com ^ 3/23/2025 ^ Tags: Dentist Mesa AZ ^