Dentist in Accra Explains Dental Changes from Aging

With the right care throughout life, your teeth are designed to last a lifetime. However, caring for your teeth over the years will change. As you age, you will have different oral health needs than what was required as a child or a teen. As a dentist in Accra, our team at Bethel Dental is committed to building generations of healthy smiles. To do so, you must understand how to properly care for your teeth through all stages of life.

Changing Oral Health Needs

As a child, the primary focus is to build strong healthy teeth. This is needed to ensure proper oral functions and to promote the development of the primary teeth. A large focus on fostering the development of the baby teeth involves nutrition and preventive care. However, as you age, the level of prevention you need will change.

Over the years, your teeth will start to show the signs of wear and tear. Weak spots in the enamel will develop and the teeth can flatten on areas where you chew. You will require restorative procedures to help strengthen the teeth to prevent future damage.

As you age, you will also become more prone to a gum infection known as periodontal disease. It is estimated, 50% of adults have a form of the disease. Although certain medical conditions, medications, and genetics play a role in the development of the infection, it is most often caused from poor oral hygiene. If proper hygiene is not maintained to prevent the infection, you could eventually suffer from tooth loss. Not to mention, periodontal disease is directly linked to causing serious health complications, such as cardiovascular disease.

Protect Your Smile

As your dental needs change over the years, there are several things you can do to fulfill those needs while protecting the longevity of your smile. You need to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each session. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque and tarter.

In addition to brushing, you need to floss in between each tooth daily. Flossing removes plaque and tarter accumulations that cannot be reached with a toothbrush. Use a dental floss to clean between each tooth.

You also need to visit your dentist every six months for preventive care. We will thoroughly clean the teeth while performing a comprehensive examination. This allows us to detect areas of concern, such as a weakened tooth, sooner for prompt intervention.

During your exam, it is important to discuss your concerns with your dentist. Discuss any medications or medical conditions that could impact your dental health, such as those that cause dry mouth or limit the body’s immune response. Together, we will formulate a preventive plan to protect your teeth.

Complete Dental Services

At Bethel Dental, we provide complete dental services for all stages of life. As your oral health needs change over the years, choose a dentist who can accommodate the individual services you need for a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact Bethel Dental today to schedule a consultation.