Aging doesn’t mean your body has to deteriorate rapidly. When you’re inching up towards the 100 year mark of your life, however, you may feel less healthy than you once were. Your teeth, just like the rest of your body, are certainly subject to gradual aging over the years. If you drink too much coffee, soda, wine, chew on ice cubes and popcorn kernels, use tobacco, or just partake in normal living, your teeth will show their age eventually. Katy TX dentist, Dr. Colin Lathrop, would like to see how you fare on this true-or-false quiz regarding aging teeth.
Questions
Q1. True or false – Staying away from high carbohydrate foods can help to stave off tooth decay as we age.
Q2. True or false – As you get older and your tooth enamel is permanently sealed, you don’t need to go to the dentist for cleanings as often. Once every other year should suffice.
Q3. True or false – Chewing sugarless gum can help prevent tooth decay.
Answers
A1. TRUE – For many long retired people, eating delicious foods and treats becomes one of their greatest pleasures. As getting around becomes more challenging, pre-packaged microwaveable meals, fast food, pizza, and take-out can be high on the list of daily dining choices. Unfortunately, most of these convenience foods are inconvenient when it comes to the health of your body and teeth. Sugary and starchy foods satisfy the cravings of bacteria in your mouth, causing cavities. Keeping a diet full of plant-based foods, and keeping up with oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings will help your teeth stay younger even as the years go by.
A2. FALSE – Because self-care can become more challenging as people age, going to the dentist every six months is even more important than ever. If an elderly person is having trouble keeping up with their twice-daily brushing and is having an issue with plaque buildup, Dr. Lathrop might even recommend more frequent dental cleaning appointments.
A3. TRUE – For older people who find it easier to sit most of the day, keeping a pack of sugarless gum nearby can help remove plaque from teeth and increase saliva production for a cleaner mouth. This isn’t a substitute for brushing teeth, but especially if between meal snacking has become a regular habit, sugarless gum and plenty of water can be helpful in avoiding a tooth decay issue.
Visit your Katy, TX Dentist
Dr. Colin Lathrop is an experienced and widely respected dentist serving patients in the Katy, TX area. Patients can schedule an appointment with Lathrop Dental Center by calling our office at 832-437-3849.
