-Senior citizens often face age-related oral health challenges, even when practicing stellar dental hygiene. Paso Robles dentist, Lisa Lu Davis, DMD, wants seniors to know why their bright smile might seem dimmer and how to maintain a healthy mouth.
Age-related dental challenges include thinning enamel, a heightened risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
- Thinning enamel means that stains from food and beverages settle in more easily. As the enamel wears, the dentin layer is exposed, making teeth more vulnerable to staining and cavities. Smoking also contributes to stained teeth.
- Some medications can also stain teeth and contribute to conditions such as dry mouth. Reduced saliva means the natural cleaning and protection process is compromised, leading to increased plaque buildup and an increased potential for tooth decay and gum disease.
- Changes in nutrition and dental hygiene practices can contribute to plaque build-up, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Healthy solutions
The Paso Robles dentist has a list of tips to help senior citizens have a healthy mouth that includes:
- A good oral hygiene program: Aging might mean that it’s also time to start brushing teeth and rinsing the mouth more frequently. Medications and changes in diet, such as consuming softer foods, eating more sugar-filled and prepared foods, or less nutritious food, can lead to changes in oral health. More frequent brushing and rinsing help remove food particles. Continuing to floss is important. There are flossing methods and tools that work with bridges. There are also strategies to help overcome dry mouth, such as drinking more water and running a humidifier at night. A visit to the dentist is an opportunity to learn appropriate flossing techniques and strategies for overcoming dry mouth.
- Regular dentist visits: Regular dental appointments remain a mainstay for good oral health at any age. Depending on a senior citizen’s oral health, more frequent visits might be recommended. An exam can reveal potential problems before they become obvious and more challenging to overcome.
- Teeth whitening programs for seniors: There are teeth whitening procedures that are appropriate for senior citizens’ teeth. In light of thinning enamel, over-the-counter methods might not be advisable because they may be too harsh and cause damage. The Paso Robles dentist advises a consultation to discuss whitening options.
Getting started
Call and schedule an appointment to discuss all the options for a healthy mouth. Allow extra time for the best evaluation of your teeth and mouth. “From that appointment, “ said Dr. Davis, “you will have the best information for any age-related oral health challenges you may be facing.”
Dr. Lisa Lu Davis attained her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) from Temple University in 1999, graduating at the top of her class, receiving awards in radiology, treatment planning, and restorative clinics. She was honored with the Hahnemann award for her research in Sjögren syndrome, a disease affecting the salivary glands.
She has been practicing dentistry in Paso Robles since 2007. Along with general dentistry, she offers straight teeth with aligners or short-term orthodontics, root canal therapy, and dental veneers in a family atmosphere. Dr. Davis loves providing patients with options to achieve their goals. She works hard to give each patient a healthy smile.
Lisa Lu Davis, DMD, Inc.
2120 Golden Hill Road Suite 103
Paso Robles, CA 93446
(805) 238-6777
