Why do my teeth look darker?
This is common questions most adults start to ask as they get older. You’ll notice your teeth are harder to keep clean and white as you age. This happens because the colorless, sticky layer of bacteria also called plaque can build up quickly and in larger amounts as we age. Another reason is that changes in dentin or the bone-like tissue that’s under your enamel will cause your teeth to look a little bit darker. It’s important to maintain your routine check-ups with your dentist so they can monitor your oral hygiene and tell you different ways you can help whiten your teeth.
Some foods have become harder to chew and swallow?
Maintaining a proper diet is important for everyone, young and old. It’s common for older adults not to eat a well-balanced diet. They typically avoid eating meats, raw veggies and fruit because they have trouble chewing or swallowing them. Problems like this can occur from bad fitting dentures, painful teeth, changes in facial muscles and even dry mouth. Other older adults find that they lost some sense of taste due to a disease or specific medications. By not having a proper healthy diet, older adults will lack calcium, protein and other essential nutrients to help their overall dental care. This is why it’s so important to have a well-balanced diet so you get the nutrients you need to maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.
Why does my mouth feel dry?
A common problem as you age is that your saliva flow reduces which results in dry mouth for older adults. It is mainly caused by medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications. When you experience dry mouth some common side effects can be sore throat, a burning sensation, difficulty swallowing, or dry nasal passages. When left untreated dry mouth can cause damage to your teeth. You need your mouth to produce saliva to wash away any food to prevent plaque buildup so cavities don’t form. To help your dry mouth problems many people use sugar free gum to help stimulate the saliva flow. This can help you fight against any future cavities.
Dental implants instead of dentures?
Dental implants are very common now a days for older adults instead of getting dentures. Dental implants are great because they act just like your natural teeth and function the same way. Ask your dentist at your next appointment if you’re a candidate for dental implants because unfortunately, everyone is not a candidate. Our dentist will evaluate you carefully and let you know what your best option is for your specific case.
Give us a call today and schedule a free new patient consultation and let the best dentistry in Philadelphia take care of your every dental need. 215-568-6222. And if you’re one of those cool older adults who has Instagram give us a follow @PhillyDentistry to stay up to date with all the latest information about our office.
