Dental procedures are an essential part of overall health. You can only be as healthy as you’d like to be if your teeth are in good shape. Dental procedures are perfect for older adults who want to maintain healthy teeth and gums. So, here are four of the most common dental procedures:
Dental Cleanings and Exams
Dental cleanings and exams are excellent dental procedures for older adults because they can help prevent any problems that could occur due to teeth or gums.
Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, which can lead to gum disease if left untreated. This can result in loss of tooth structure, gum recession, and tooth decay. Cleanings also help prevent further tooth decay by removing food debris between the teeth.
Dental exams provide a thorough checkup of your oral health, including the condition of your gums, teeth, and jawbone. The dentist will check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease and identify any other potential problems, such as loose fillings or crowns that may need replacing.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are excellent dental procedures for older adults because they help prevent tooth decay and strengthen the enamel. Fluoride treatments can be done with mouthwash, toothpaste, or mouth rinse. They are also used to treat dry mouth or gum disease.
Older adults need fluoride treatments because their teeth tend to be more sensitive than younger adults’ teeth. The sensitivity makes it more difficult for them to brush their teeth daily and adequately clean between their teeth. This causes more plaque buildup on their teeth and increases the risk of developing cavities.
Teeth Whitening
As people age, natural processes in their mouth cause teeth to become yellowed and discolored. These processes can also lead to enamel loss, exposing the tooth’s dentin layer. The dentin layer contains blood vessels that may become visible through the enamel layer through tiny red lines.
Teeth whitening treatments can help restore teeth to their natural color, making them look younger and healthier. In addition, older adults who have undergone treatment are likely to feel more confident about their appearance and will find it easier to smile in public or with family members who may not be familiar with their natural teeth coloration.
Root Canal Procedures
Root canal procedures are great dental procedures for older adults because they prevent the need for more expensive and invasive procedures like crowns, bridges, and implants.
If you have a tooth infected with bacteria, getting it treated as soon as possible is essential. A root canal procedure can help prevent further damage to your teeth, which might eventually cause them to fall out or require removal.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are great for older adults because they’re a more permanent solution than traditional dentures. Traditional dentures can be challenging to keep clean and may cause discomfort while eating, leading to poor nutrition and weight loss. Dental implants are placed into the jawbone, which helps them stay in place. In addition, they provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth.
Dentures can also be expensive, especially if they need to be replaced frequently. Implants are more cost-effective because they last longer than dentures and don’t require as much maintenance or replacement work over time.
If you’re an older adult looking for a long-term solution that will help you eat better and feel more confident about your smile, dental implants might be right for you.
Sophie Okolo, MPH 
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