What is the best way to take care of my teeth as an adult?
Adults can have cavities and gum disease that can develop into serious problems. That is why it is important to respect these suggestions:
Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove bacterial plaque.
Floss daily to remove plaque deposited between the teeth and under the gum, and prevent it from hardening and turning into tartar. Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by professional cleaning.
Limit consumption of starches and sugars, especially sticky foods. The more often you eat between meals, the more opportunities plaque acids have to attack your tooth enamel.
Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups and professional cleanings.
What special dental issues should I be aware of as an adult?
Even if you brush and floss your teeth regularly, you could still face certain oral health problems in adulthood. Fortunately, your dentist can help you prevent and resolve most of these situations successfully.
Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which in its initial stage is still reversible. Symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen and very sensitive gums, which tend to bleed during brushing or spontaneously.
Cavities around existing fillings (called recurrent cavities) and cavities on the root surfaces of teeth are more common with advancing age. Therefore, it is important to brush with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily and visit the dentist regularly.
Tooth sensitivity can become more severe as we age. Gums may recede over time, exposing areas of the tooth that are not protected by enamel. These areas are particularly prone to pain with hot and cold foods or beverages. If you experience sensitivity, try a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. If the problem persists, consult your dentist.
At Ziving Tomas Sastre we will be happy to inform you about dental health and preventive measures for possible dental problems!
