Seniors Dental Health Information
Certain conditions can occur in seniors that would not normally be found in younger individuals and that can affect the health of their teeth, as well as their overall physical well being. Usually, there is more than one restorative solution for repairing broken-down and missing teeth. A consultation with Dr. Austin will help you choose the best restorative solution for your situation. You can help keep your permanent teeth longer by replacing missing teeth, brushing and flossing daily, and having regular dental check-ups and professional tooth cleanings. Stopping smoking or chewing tobacco and maintaining good nutrition will also help you achieve the optimum in oral health. The following conditions that may be of concern and which should be evaluated by us at Austin Family Dental are:
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Loss or Alteration in Taste

Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

Denture Care
What is the best way to get used to my new dentures?
As with any new appliance, dentures may feel quite odd. They may cause increased saliva flow or they may alter speech. One should start by cutting food into small pieces, avoid hot foods, and avoid hard foods until the tissue, where the denture rests, becomes used to the new teeth. As time goes by, one will become accustomed to them.
Do I brush them like real teeth?
No, dentures should be cleaned, if possible, after each meal. The best way is to remove them and rinse them. If one is able to, brushing the dentures is advised, as well as rinsing the mouth to clean it of any debris. If some natural teeth do remain, brushing them is suggested. Always soak dentures at night after brushing them. Over the counter cleaning agents are available. Keeping the dentures soaked prolongs them from warping. It is also much healthier to keep the teeth out overnight to avoid excessive pressure on the soft tissue and bone. Always remember to brush your tongue and lightly brush the gums with a soft toothbrush. Special denture brushes should be used on the dentures.
When is it time for a new denture?
As the years pass, the tissue and bone may shrink slightly. The dentures will then loosen. Also, as one loses or gains weight, one may notice that the denture may loosen. Dentures, if the dentist advises, can be relined to help tighten them. However, if their bases are too far gone, a new one may need to be fabricated. As always, even a full denture wearer should visit the dentist on a regular basis to get an evaluation of the palate, tongue, and surrounding tissue for any problems. Sore spots should not be ignored. See the dentist if adjustments are needed at Austin Family Dental.