Achieving a healthy smile throughout life requires consistent habits, including good dental hygiene. Whether brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, or getting regular dental checkups, a strong foundation in oral health practices can help adults and seniors avoid gum disease and keep their natural teeth as long as possible.
For most baby boomers, good dental self-care comes naturally. They have been taught since early childhood that they need to brush their teeth, use a fluoride toothpaste and visit the dentist regularly. However, as this generation ages, they may be facing new challenges when it comes to their teeth.
Research shows that oral health is linked to other aspects of overall health. For example, if bacteria in your mouth are not addressed, it can enter the bloodstream and affect the entire body. Or, when a tooth is removed, the bacterial infection in the area can spread to other parts of the mouth and even the rest of the body.
This is why it is so important for parents to teach their children good oral health from the beginning, starting with the first tooth eruption and continuing through adulthood. In addition to a healthy diet, it is critical to visit a Northbrook family dentist regularly. This will prevent cavities and identify any problems that can be treated as soon as possible.
When it comes to seniors, good oral care is just as essential, especially after teeth are lost. The best way to maintain your teeth is to practice good daily brushing and flossing routines with a fluoride toothpaste, avoid tobacco products and drink plenty of water. It is also important to talk with your doctor and dentist about replacing missing teeth or dentures.
The AAPD’s Mouth Monsters is a fun, interactive website with games and activities to promote good dental hygiene habits in young children. The site is designed to make it easier for parents to discuss the importance of oral health with their kids.
In partnership with Colgate, the Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program educates children about the connection between good oral health and overall well-being by providing free dental screenings and education to families in need. The initiative has reached more than one billion children worldwide in 80 countries on six continents.
Dental issues can often be more serious in older adults, causing discomfort and even impacting quality of life. For instance, gum disease has been linked to coronary heart disease and can affect other organs of the body as well. The best dentist in Northbrook, IL can recommend treatments like gingivectomy or periodontics that restore tooth structure, preventing further damage to the teeth and supporting good health.