How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy as You Age
At Alpine Vista Dental, we believe that healthy smiles should last a lifetime. But just like the rest of our bodies, our teeth and gums change as we age, those changes can bring new challenges. Fortunately, there are simple, effective steps you can take to maintain your oral health well into your golden years. Whether you’re in your 40s, 60s, or beyond, it’s never too late to take action and protect your smile.
Here’s what you need to know about keeping your teeth healthy as you age, especially if you live right here in Highlands Ranch, CO.
1. Prioritize Preventive Dental Care
One of the most important things you can do for your oral health as you age is to stay consistent with preventive dental visits. At Alpine Vista Dental, we recommend seeing your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. These regular visits help us catch small issues—like cavities or gum inflammation—before they turn into bigger problems.
As we age, we’re more susceptible to gum disease, root decay, and even oral cancer. Routine screenings, cleanings, and X-rays are your best line of defense. If you wear dentures, we’ll also check for proper fit and function to prevent sore spots and bone loss.
2. Address Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth is a common concern for older adults and can be caused by medications, chronic health conditions, or simply changes in the body over time. Saliva plays a vital role in neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria. Without it, your risk for cavities and gum disease goes up.
To combat dry mouth:
- Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.
- Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and caffeine.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow.
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about medications that may be causing dryness.
If dry mouth persists, Alpine Vista Dental can recommend specialized rinses or treatment options to help protect your teeth and gums.
3. Be Mindful of Medications and Health Conditions
Your oral health is closely tied to your overall health. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis can directly impact your teeth and gums. For example, diabetes increases your risk of gum disease, and osteoporosis can lead to bone loss in the jaw.
Certain medications—especially those used to treat blood pressure, depression, or allergies—can also cause dry mouth, gum overgrowth, or changes in taste.
At Alpine Vista Dental, we review your full medical history and work closely with your healthcare providers to create a treatment plan that takes your unique health needs into account.
4. Maintain a Strong At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine
Even if you’ve been brushing and flossing your whole life, it’s worth checking in on your technique and tools as you get older. Arthritis, decreased dexterity, or poor eyesight can make brushing and flossing more challenging—but we’ve got solutions.
Tips for effective at-home dental care:
- Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush for better control.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily, or try floss picks or water flossers if traditional floss is difficult to use.
- Consider antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria.
Our team at Alpine Vista Dental is happy to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommend tools to make oral care easier for you or a loved one.
5. Watch for Signs of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer risk increases with age, especially for those over 55. That’s why regular screenings are so important. At each dental exam, we check your tongue, cheeks, throat, and gums for any unusual changes.
Early signs of oral cancer include:
- Sores that don’t heal
- Persistent pain or numbness
- Lumps or thick patches
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
If you notice anything unusual between visits, don’t wait—contact our Highlands Ranch office right away.
6. Consider Cosmetic or Restorative Options
Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you have to settle for a smile that doesn’t make you feel confident. Modern dentistry offers a variety of cosmetic and restorative solutions to help you feel great about your teeth at any age.
At Alpine Vista Dental, we offer:
- Tooth-colored fillings and crowns
- Dental implants and bridges to replace missing teeth
- Dentures (full and partial) that look and feel natural
- Teeth whitening treatments for a brighter smile
Whether you need to replace a missing tooth or want to improve the overall appearance of your smile, we can help you achieve results that look beautiful and feel natural.
7. Live a Smile-Friendly Lifestyle
Finally, your daily habits make a big difference in your oral health. To keep your teeth strong:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Limit sugary snacks and acidic beverages.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products.
- Get regular exercise to support circulation and bone health.
Your smile reflects your overall well-being—so treat it like a priority!
Your Partner in Lifelong Dental Health in Highlands Ranch, CO
At Alpine Vista Dental, we’re proud to serve patients of all ages here in Highlands Ranch. Whether you’re managing the effects of aging on your teeth or simply want to stay ahead of potential problems, we’re here with personalized care, advanced technology, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
If it’s been a while since your last dental visit—or if you have concerns about your oral health, call us today to schedule your appointment. Let’s work together to keep your smile strong, healthy, and vibrant for years to come.
