How to Keep Your Smile Healthy as You Age
Did you know that your teeth can say a lot about your age? Aging can have a noticeable impact on your smile. As you get older, the appearance of your teeth is typically darker and duller. In addition, receding gums give the lips less support, making you look older. Effects of poor oral health can go beyond a person’s mouth. Research continues to show a connection between oral and overall health. Gum disease has been linked to several systemic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. Luckily, it is never too late to form better oral health habits that benefit your overall health. Take a moment during National Healthy Aging Month to learn more about oral health and how to keep your smile in tip-top shape. Four ways your smile can change as you age General wear and tear Dry mouth caused by medications Shifting teeth—can cause receding gums and make them more […]
Dental cleanings explained
Even with good at-home oral health routines, going to the dentist for regular cleanings is an essential part of keeping your smile healthy. Visiting the dentist for preventive care can also help avoid the need for more costly oral health procedures. What happens during a dental cleaning? Trained dental hygienists use tools to clean your gums and teeth professionally. They check for signs of gingivitis (inflamed gums) and cavities and make note of any problem areas for the dentist to examine. As part of a dental cleaning, a scaler is used to remove plaque and tartar around your gum line. Scraping sounds are normal, but let your hygienist know if you are uncomfortable or feel pain. While flossing and brushing can keep plaque from hardening and becoming tartar, it can only be removed during a dental cleaning. If your hygienist spends a long time cleaning your teeth, they might encourage […]
