Dental care in old age is still a topic that our society doesn't talk about often. Although we are taught from an early age how important thorough brushing is, there are some things that change with increasing age. Senior dentistry forms its own branch in the field of dental care. In today's blog post, we explain what special considerations you need to take into account as you get older and how to maintain healthy teeth even in old age.
The Challenge of Dental Care in Old Age
Even in old age, the basic principles of dental care that we learned when we were young still apply. Nevertheless, our teeth change with increasing age. Regular use over decades and daily exposure to acids and sugars, which are found in an increasing number of foods, also cause our teeth to age. In addition to the natural aging process, physical ailments and the fact that the immune system is no longer as strong and active in old age as in younger years also play a role. As a result, the oral cavity, teeth, and gums are sometimes prone to massive inflammation. To keep your teeth completely healthy even in old age, it is important that they are thoroughly cleaned. Therefore, twice-daily oral hygiene is essential even in old age. Even if your teeth have been replaced by dentures.
What is Important for Brushing Teeth in Old Age
Exposed tooth necks and receding gums require some caution when brushing teeth in old age. You should definitely make sure not to scrub your teeth too hard. Gentle pressure cleans your teeth just as effectively as vigorous scrubbing.
Our emmi®-dent ultrasonic toothbrush is ideal for dental care and cleaning in old age. If you use state-of-the-art ultrasonic technology to clean your teeth, you can clean entirely without pressure. With ultrasound, you clean your teeth solely through the technology with the help of the special gel.
Especially with motor difficulties and declining eyesight, which is completely normal with increasing age, our emmi®-dent ultrasonic toothbrush proves to be a perfect helper for daily dental care. Its large and handy grip makes it easier to hold and supports you even with already impaired motor skills.
Especially in old age, cleaning the interdental spaces is extremely important. With increasing age, these become larger. Larger interdental spaces unfortunately also allow for a greater accumulation of food debris. Our emmi®-dent ultrasonic toothbrush also works very effectively in this area.
Healthy Teeth into Old Age
Healthy teeth into old age – who doesn't wish for that? And even if dentures or implants support the teeth in old age, daily dental hygiene is essential.
Now you might think that implants and prostheses cannot be affected by typical dental diseases. Beware, because this thought is correct, but just as deceptive. Especially on implants and prostheses, many harmful bacteria accumulate. They not only attack adjacent teeth, but – and this is often much worse – also the surrounding gums.
Diseases and medications reduce saliva flow. The reduction in saliva means that acids and caries bacteria can settle even better. A dry mouth thus promotes the multiplication of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity. For this reason, you should ensure that you drink enough fluids even in old age. Regardless, dental cleaning is an important component of overall health.
