Taking good care of the oral cavity should be practiced from early childhood. While genetic factors do come into play as far as teeth and gums are concerned, a lot can still be achieved by paying attention to oral hygiene.
Regular visits to the dentist are also important. Fortunately, there are many dental care experts you can consult for your children and parents’ oral health.
But, no matter how much attention we give to our teeth, as we age, there are some oral health problems that we are bound to face sooner or later. Some of the most common ones are as follows:
- Dark Teeth – This could be caused by beverages and food. But, in most cases, it is due to thinning outer enamel when changes in the bone-like tissue under it occurs.
- Dry Mouth – This is due to decreased flow of saliva. Cancer treatments and other medications can also cause dry mouth.
- Root Decay – If the root gets exposed to acids, decay sets in quickly. This happens as the gum tissue recedes and exposes the roots.
- Gum Disease and Tooth Loss – Ill-fitting dentures, bridges, poor diet and use of tobacco, among others, can cause plaque, which eventually leads to gum disease and tooth loss.
- Uneven Jaw – This is caused by missing teeth. If there are gaps and open spaces, the rest of the teeth tend to drift into them causing uneven jaw.
But, it is still possible to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent most of these problems. You can enjoy excellent oral health by doing the following:
- Looking after your teeth and brushing twice daily from an early age
- Taking care of your gums and flossing regularly.
- Visiting the dentist on a regular basis and following their advice.
Avoid food that stains and harms your teeth in any way. Also, get rid of your smoking habits. Even if you are busy, get your teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis. Make sure that the dentures and implants fit well. If not, have their sizes altered.
Consult your dentist and understand how you can care for your teeth better as you age. Remember, bad oral health can affect other functions of the body, too.