Ageing can create a whole host of changes to your mouth, but there is still a lot you can do to help ensure your teeth and gums remain in great shape.

General Wear and Tear

Teeth are incredibly strong, but exposure to acidic foods and the mere act of chewing foods can gradually wear them down. While you cannot prevent much of this wear and tear, good dental care can help considerably. Fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel, and we can repair teeth that may have become chipped or cracked. Regular preventative care will ensure any ageing restorations are replaced as they begin to fail, for example, fillings that may have begun to leak. If you are concerned about the appearance of your teeth as they age, ask us about cosmetic dentist Northcote.

Problems Caused by Medication

People tend to take more medications as they get older and these can cause unpleasant side-effects. One of these is dry mouth, where there isn’t enough saliva to keep your mouth clean and comfortable. This can make it difficult to chew and swallow food, and it also increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Chewing sugar-free sweets or gum can help, or we can prescribe a saliva substitute.

As you get older, we can work with you to make sure you receive the most appropriate preventative dental care to keep you smiling with good oral health.