You probably wouldn’t be surprised to learn that people require more medical care as they age. If you’re above 50, there are more routine checkups you require from a doctor to ensure excellent health.
The situation is similar regarding the care of your teeth. As you age, the risks for problems regarding your teeth increase, so you’ll want to see your dentist more often to help prevent them. But how often is too much?
How Often Should Seniors Visit the Dentist?
For most of your life, it is recommended that you visit the dentist at least once a year. If you have a history of poor dental health or experience ongoing issues, your dentist may advise you to book more frequent visits.
On the other hand, when you get older, the risk of developing complications associated with your oral health will increase. You’ll want to visit your dentist more often as a senior to get regular checkups so your dentist can identify and treat any potential problems you might have early on.
As such, seniors should visit the dentist at least twice a year. Again, if you develop any complications or oral health problems as a senior, you will likely need to book more appointments, depending on the advice of your dentist.
What Oral Health Care Issues May Appear?
Some of the common oral health issues that seniors are at risk of developing include the following:
- Root Decay
- Oral Cancer
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Decay
- Dry Mouth
If you suspect you are suffering from any of these common problems, you should immediately book a checkup with your dentist. Another issue you may face later in life is tooth loss, in which case your dentist will likely recommend a visit to a denture clinic.
What if You Need Dentures?
Those who need to get dentures or already have them might wonder whether they need to visit a dentist. After all, if you have complete dentures and have already lost all of your teeth, should you worry about caring for them?
The answer should be easy for people who only have partial dentures, since you will still have some natural teeth that require proper oral health care; however, if you’ve never had dentures before, you may be surprised to learn that you also need to practice proper oral hygiene with your false teeth as well. In particular, individuals who do not clean their dentures regularly risk developing problems related to the gums.
Should I Visit a Denture Clinic Regularly?
If you have dentures of any kind, you’ll need to also book regular visits to your denture clinic. Some of the benefits you’ll receive by booking a regular checkup at your denture clinic include denture repairs, cleanings and adjustments to ensure a proper fit.
A Double Line of Defense
For seniors who wear dentures, booking regular visits to the dentist alongside regular visits to the denture clinic will result in a double line of defence against the potential of developing oral health problems.
If you’ve been referred to a denture clinic to find out whether dentures will work for you, you should visit as soon as possible. Find a denture clinic near you that offers exceptional preventative oral hygiene advice.
Read Also: What Makes Older Dental Patients Needs Different?
