Many of our patients are already familiar with the basic essentials required to maintain good dental health including daily brushing and flossing, limiting excessive consumption of sugar and fizzy drinks, and seeing a dentist in Kings Hill for routine check-ups and professional teeth cleaning. In addition to all of the above, there are a few extra dental care responsibilities that apply particularly to each phase of a patient’s life.
It is only natural for one’s oral healthcare needs to change over the course of a lifetime. In the same way that a teenager’s skin care needs will differ from those of an adult, so too will the approach to dental care be different as teeth and gums age. Our professional dentist in Kings Hill is suitably qualified to provide quality dental care for patients across the age spectrum.
Oral care guidance for every phase
- Baby teeth
Baby teeth are present when a baby is born although these are not yet visible above the gum line. For parents, it would be a good idea to implement some sort of oral hygiene practice as early as possible. For example, the gums and teeth, once they have emerged, can be washed gently with a wet cloth. Other recommendations include discouraging thumb sucking, and ensuring the baby does not fall asleep with the teat in the mouth.
- Childhood
The most opportune time to inculcate good oral care habits is in childhood. Once a child has learned how to look after their teeth, there is a greater likelihood that he or she will carry these good habits into adulthood. If a child is involved in sporting activities, it is recommended that they wear a mouth guard to protect their teeth from damage, or being knocked out due to an accident or fall.
This is also a favourable phase to have a dentist in Kings Hill examine a child’s mouth to determine whether teeth and gums are developing as they should, or if orthodontic treatment is necessary. Proper nutrition is critical in childhood, not only for optimal physical and mental development, but also to prevent tooth decay, which is a dental condition prevalent in children due to the frequency of consuming sugary treats.
- Adulthood
Unlike baby teeth that fall out and are replaced by a permanent set, adult teeth are meant to provide a lifetime of service. Once they decay and fall out, they do not grow back again. This fact heightens the importance of looking after one’s natural teeth in adulthood, making oral care a priority.
Dental conditions including gum disease in adulthood are exacerbated by bad habits such as poor diet, poor oral hygiene, stress, and smoking. Teeth may also become discoloured by consuming teeth-staining drinks like coffee and red wine, and will need to be professionally whitened by a dentist.
- Elderly
There is more of a possibility that a patient will face health complications in their old age. Patients may also have missing teeth, and any gaps in the dental arches will have implications for the patient’s psychological and physical health. Inability to eat certain foods may mean there are nutritional deficiencies, and self-esteem can take a knock.
To ensure they keep their natural teeth for longer, the elderly should take greater care of their gums, undergo screening for oral cancer, seek treatment for dry mouth, and as a general rule, manage any medical conditions as directed by their doctor. To arrange for a dental check-up or for any other dental treatment, call us at One Smile Oral Care for an appointment.