Seniors, protect your smiles this Oral Health Month

(NC) April is Oral Health Month, a time to brush up on oral health knowledge and build good habits. Our teeth change as we age—sensitivity, root exposure and a faster buildup of plaque are all issues seniors need to consider. Here are three simple steps you can take to better look after your smile:

1. Set up an oral care routine that’s easy to maintain. Building good habits goes a long way to supporting your oral health. It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, ideally once in the morning and a second time before you go to bed. You should also clean between your teeth daily—your nighttime brush is the perfect moment to work in flossing.

   If you find brushing difficult, you can look for ways to make it easier on your hands and wrists. For instance, you can use a powered toothbrush with a larger handle to make brushing less strenuous and more efficient. For cleaning between your teeth, consider using a floss holder or a water flosser, which can be easier than wrapping floss around your fingers.

2. See your dental hygienist regularly. Regular visits to a dental hygienist are essential for maintaining your oral health. They’ll remove plaque and hard buildup, called calculus, that can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis, and will monitor the health of your teeth and gums. They’ll also provide guidance on proper toothbrushing technique, as well as tips to better care for your oral health.
3. Look after your dentures. If you have complete or partial dentures, it’s important to maintain them and keep them clean. In fact, dentures require just as much care as your natural teeth. Take them out daily for cleaning and check them for cracks or any signs of weakening. For the health of your gums, you should remove your dentures every night so that you can brush and clean between any natural teeth, and let your gums breathe overnight.

By making your oral care routine work better for you, keeping up with your dental hygiene appointments and caring for your dentures, you can make a real difference to your oral health. Learn more at dentalhygienecanada.ca/seniors.

Attention editors: Here’s an alternate seasonal headline for Oral Health Month (April)

3 steps for seniors to protect their oral health

(NC) Canadians are living longer than ever before, which means that it’s never been more important for seniors to practise good oral care. Our teeth change as we age—increased sensitivity, root exposure and a faster buildup of plaque are all issues seniors may experience. Here are three simple steps you can take to better look after your smile: