As you get older, it takes a lot more work to maintain your health, fitness, and appearance. When you’re young, your body is much more forgiving of bad habits such as a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. But with age comes added responsibility, and the consequences of your actions become more apparent.
You start to feel the aches and pains of middle age or notice that drinking alcohol takes more of a toll than it used to. It’s more important than ever to take care of your health and ensure you remain in peak condition as the years go by.
Your dental health is one of the most important indicators of your overall well-being. Your teeth not only help you to consume food but are also an essential method of communicating with others. If you neglect them, you will not only notice the appearance of your mouth start to decline but can also be susceptible to all kinds of dental health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities. Although some people are genetically predisposed to have a great smile, anyone can manage it with the right amount of care and attention.
The following guide provides some expert tips and tricks for keeping your teeth in perfect health as you get older.
This is a collaborative post.
Have regular dental checkups
No matter how well you look after your teeth, the only guaranteed indicator of dental health is to get your mouth looked at by a medical professional. A dentist will be able to spot any early indicators of issues such as gum disease or tooth decay and help you to fix the problem before it gets any worse. Too many people neglect to visit the dentist until a problem actually materialises, and by then, it could be too late to reverse it. Schedule a regular dental appointment at least once a year. Consider also booking in with a dental hygienist at the same time to keep your teeth sparkling clean and polished.
Clean your teeth properly
We’ve all had nights when we’re too tired to brush our teeth before bed. It may not seem like a huge issue to miss out on our nightly routine every now and then. But throughout the day, bacteria and plaque build up around your mouth, and it’s important to go to bed with a clean mouth to avoid issues like bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. No matter how sleepy you may be, it’s essential you brush every morning and every evening.
Proper brushing technique is also important. You need to make sure you target all sides of your teeth, even the backs, which are often neglected. Many people don’t brush for long enough, so you should ensure you clean your teeth for around two minutes in total. Don’t forget to scrub the top of your tongue, as lots of bacteria build up here.
Use an electric toothbrush
There is a reason why so many dentists recommend electric toothbrushes over manual ones. They offer a much more thorough clean that targets all areas of your mouth. The vibrations allow the bristles to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of every last bit of food hiding between your teeth. There are advanced models on the market with timers that buzz to tell you when to stop brushing or lights that flash red when you are pressing too hard.
Although they are more expensive than manual toothbrushes, a good quality electric brush will last a long time, and the health benefits will be worth the extra expense.
Don’t forget to floss
Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so. It allows you to access the areas of your mouth that your brush can’t reach, particularly between the teeth. This prevents plaque from accumulating in these inaccessible areas and is one of the most effective ways to prevent gingivitis, or gum disease.
If you are new to flossing, you may notice some blood in the sink when you spit. But this is normal, as it shows that you may have some mild gum disease caused by inadequate cleaning. After a few days of regular flossing, the blood will stop, and your gums will be pinker and healthier than ever before.
Stop eating junk food
The food you eat has an enormous impact on the health of your teeth. Sugary treats and fizzy drinks, in particular, are hugely damaging to your enamel, and a consistently poor diet will lead to decay and cavities. That’s not to say you should only eat vegetables for the rest of your life, but that you should try to minimise the junk food in your diet. The odd slice of cake won’t make a huge difference, but if you’re drinking a can of Coke every single day, the negative effects will eventually make themselves known.
Beverages like red wine and coffee, although not strictly unhealthy if consumed in moderation, are the prime suspects when it comes to staining. Drinking too much of these substances causes your teeth to accrue a yellowish tint that may not be improved by brushing. Limit yourself to no more than one coffee in the morning and alcoholic beverages to the occasional treat.
Opt for a balanced diet full of plenty of fruit and vegetables that help to clear plaque and maintain fresh breath. Keep the sweets and sodas to a minimum, and your teeth will thank you in the long run.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water has myriad health benefits for your entire body, from your skin to your digestive system. But it’s also great for keeping your teeth clean too. Swigging a glass of water will help to clear your mouth of stubborn food particles, sugary buildup, and bacteria. This will prevent plaque from building up and will keep your mouth nice and clean until your next brushing session. Get into the habit of drinking water with every meal and carrying a bottle with you everywhere you go.
By following these tips, you will ensure that even though you may be getting older, your teeth look as perfect as they always have. Just remember to watch your diet, clean them properly, and visit a dentist at least once every year.