You might have been one of the lucky ones that looked after your teeth all your life, but life soon catches up with all of us. When we hit the ripe old age of 40, we are at an in-between age where little health problems can slowly begin to snowball. Your teeth might have been in perfect condition, but now you find yourself going for fillings or you have been told that you need to look after your teeth more. What are the best ways for you to look after your teeth at the age of 40 and over?
The Right Habits
You need to make sure that those teeth are protected. If there is a gap in your teeth you could benefit from dental implants for the very simple reason that if food gets into your gums they could end up causing health issues further down the line. You may have an impeccable diet, but when foodstuffs get into the bloodstream via a gap in your teeth you may end up experiencing inflammation that could cause gum disease. The right habits are invaluable. It is about making sure that you brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time, and floss at least once a day. You should also change your toothbrushes and ensure that the toothbrush does not have frayed bristles, as this can reduce its effectiveness.
Addressing Common Concerns
After the age of 40, you could run the risk of having missing or decayed teeth and gum disease but also you could find yourself with more sensitive teeth. If hot or cold foods make your teeth feel more sensitive you may have fractured your teeth, worn tooth enamel, cavities, or gum disease. Additionally, if there are any issues with chewing, swallowing, or even moving your tongue this could be a sign of oral cancer, which is rare, however, it is important to recognize that after the age of 40 we all should be conducting checks for any sign of cancer. When it comes to your oral health, regular check-ups are the best way forward.
Understanding The Impacts Of Other Health Issues On Your Mouth
We must remember that the mouth is the gateway to the body. If bacteria build up on our teeth, we can get a range of infections, but we also need to recognize that proper oral health can be the first line of defense against major health concerns. For example, gum disease might have an impact on the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Periodontal disease treatments can reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and periodontal disease may contribute to an increase in bacteria in the lungs.
When we are trying to look after our health after the age of 40 it is not just about aesthetics anymore. As beneficial as it is to get your teeth whitened, it is crucial to drill down deep into the underlying causes that may result in oral health problems. While we all know we should be brushing and flossing, when it comes to looking after our teeth after the age of 40 we have to develop a more preventative approach.
