Oral hygiene is always important – but the way you’ll need to care for your teeth will change as the years go by. Children’s teeth require different considerations than adults’, as do those of seniors. How do you keep track of the best way to care for your pearly whites? With this handy guide to oral hygiene at every stage of life. Read on for some helpful resources and tips. And schedule your next dental exam today for a personalized look at whether your oral hygiene is sufficing.
Children’s Tooth Development
Kids’ permanent teeth are developing during their childhood, so they need to get the nutrients that will make those teeth strong and healthy. The most important are fluoride and calcium. Giving your kids plenty of dairy should be sufficient on the calcium front, and make sure to check with your dentist on the proper amount of fluoride. Topical products may not be enough.
Get your kids excited about oral hygiene to get them brushing and flossing. Try putting up a brushing and flossing chart, cleaning your teeth alongside them, or talking to them about cavities.
Oral Hygiene for Adults
We know that you lead a busy, full life. Don’t let your oral hygiene fall by the wayside because you’re preoccupied. Spending 10 minutes a day brushing and flossing carefully will save you countless hours in the dental chair. Schedule regular exams every 6 months (or more frequently, if Dr. Hargreaves recommends). And keep on eye on your teeth and gums for signs of potential problems.
Senior Dental Care
When you grow older, your teeth and gums are more likely to succumb to problems. If you have dry mouth as a side effect of medication, it’s possible for you to develop periodontal disease. We may need to monitor your mouth more carefully to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Questions about your own dental care? Contact us today!