How Can Seniors Keep Their Teeth for a Lifetime?

http://www.dentistcudahyca.com/how-can-seniors-can-keep-their-teeth-for-a-lifetime/
How Can Seniors Keep Their Teeth for a Lifetime?
There is no reason seniors can not keep their teeth for a lifetime, since tooth loss is simply the result of an oral disease-- not the aging process. Many seniors do not visit a dentist even once a year-- one of the key preventive strategies in ensuring that teeth last a lifetime. Keeping up with the good dental habits that promote healthy teeth and gums should be a top priority as we age. Daily brushing and flossing are as important as ever in later years, as seniors are more likely to experience gum disease, and tooth discoloration caused by a deterioration of enamel and dentin, and oral health issues that stem from other diseases or medications.
Regular dental sees are especially important for seniors since many suffer from dry mouth, which slows down the flow of saliva. All throughout our lives, carbohydrate foods team up with bacteria in the mouth to produce cavity-forming acids. Saliva plays a major part in preventing tooth decay by rinsing away food particles and neutralizing unsafe acids. Dry mouth commonly has old age, but can also be caused by medications like antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants and diuretics.
Seniors commonly have receding gums that expose the sensitive roots of the teeth to cavities. These cavities should be filled as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the teeth. To lower the risk of cavities, it is recommended to use fluoride toothpaste and a mouth-rinse containing fluoride. Avoid snacks containing sugars and starches as much as possible.
Gum disease (Periodontal disease) is the main reason people lose their teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a bacterial film that continuously forms around the teeth. Although gum disease is commonly painless until it is very advanced, some signs of gum disease include: bleeding gums after brushing your teeth, persistent bad breath; swollen gums; loose teeth; a change in the fit of partial dentures.