Did You Know That Age Can Affect Your Teeth?

Posted .

As you age, it can become more difficult to care for your body. However, did you know that it can also be more difficult to care for your oral health as you age? Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do—and should know—to better care for your teeth as you age.

One issue you’re likely to face as you age is dry mouth. Dry mouth is a fairly serious problem that can ultimately lead to bad breath, gum disease, and even tooth decay. As you age, your mouth may not be able to produce enough saliva. Saliva is actually very important because it carries away bad plaque and bacteria. You could face this issue because of medications, which you’ll be more likely to need as you age.

As your body ages, your teeth can also become more brittle, leaving them more likely to crack and chip. Either of these issues can also leave you more vulnerable to problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. Similarly, individuals with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have serious dental issues, such as gum disease or chronic bacterial infections.

We recommend scheduling regular appointments with our dentist, Dr. Letitia M. Williams, if you’re interested in avoiding these issues. Practicing good oral hygiene is also extremely important. To learn more about the care you can receive from our team, please don’t hesitate to give Letitia M. Williams, DDS, LLC a call at 334.377.3778. We look forward to hearing from you!