As a Bellevue dentist office, we treat patients of all ages and focus on preventative care so that our patients can remain in good health as they age. While many dentists focus on the importance of educating children about good oral health, we feel that the education should continue well into adulthood. Many adults think that as long as they brush twice a day, they can set their oral health on autopilot and not think about it. Oral health concerns are just as important during middle age as they are in childhood. In fact, some oral health concerns are more prevalent during this time period.
As people age, the teeth are at an increased risk of sensitivity. The enamel protects the teeth but will wear away over time. The foods that one eats can influence this and so we warn patients to avoid foods that are highly acidic like lemons and limes. Highly acidic foods can leave acid on the teeth that will start to attack and erode the enamel. Once the enamel wears away, it will not grow back naturally. We suggest taking steps to avoid it in the first place.
Patients can protect the enamel by reducing or eliminating how many foods they consume that are high in acid content. We also recommend switching to a soft toothbrush and being gentle while cleaning their teeth. While these steps will help, if the teeth already have significant erosion, people may want to consider wearing dental crowns in order to protect the teeth. We can create tooth-colored crowns in order to look natural and will even help a patient's teeth to appear bright and white.
Another common concern in middle age is tooth decay and tooth loss. The majority of adults have lost, or suffer decay in, at least three teeth between the ages of 20 and 64. Adult tooth loss is quite common and people need to consider how they intend to replace them. We offer dental implants as a more permanent and durable solution. A dental implant provides patients with a new tooth and fortifies the jawbone.
This way, patients can avoid some of the standard bone loss that comes with missing teeth. If patients prefer a non-surgical method, we also offer dental bridges. All of these options can appear natural while helping to preserve the facial structure and speech patterns as one grows older.
Our middle age patients also commonly complain of dry mouth. As a dentist office, we recommend drinking more water since the more hydrated you are, the more saliva you have. While simple, keeping your mouth hydrated will prevent bad breath, reduce the risk for cavities, and help your mouth to remain healthier over time.
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