Are you assuming care for an aging relative?

Have you noticed changes in your own teeth as you age?

Are there other concerns that relate to your teeth in later adulthood?

If you have answered yes, then you are among many other Americans who find that age results in new challenges in the realm of oral hygiene. Though the general care practices remain the same, there are issues that are more likely to come up later in life, which may require changes in routine.

Dentures are a big concern for aging Americans as they are generally a solution used for older adults.

Whether full or partial dentures, they do require a certain level of care in order to function correctly. It is important to keep them clean. Brush them every day and brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth as well to ensure you stave off gingivitis and other mouth disease.

Store the dentures in lukewarm water or denture cleaning solution. The dentures should fit snuggly and comfortably and should open and close easily. If that is not the case, consult your doctor.

For aging adults that suffer from arthritis and other conditions that affect the grip on the toothbrush, it is important to enlarge the handle of the brush. Consider wrapping with sponge, foam, or soft rubber ball.

Electric toothbrushes will often feature a naturally larger handle, which makes them an excellent consideration.

To read more about common causes of dental concern as we age, such as increased rate of decay and dealing with gum disease, as well as the proposed solutions, visit the full article.