How to look after your teeth as you get older

Your oral health can change as you become older. Wear and tear and certain medications can all have an effect.

“You can expect all sorts of oral health changes when you get to this stage of your life,” says Head Dentist at Bupa, Dr Cathryn Madden. “A lifetime of the effects of certain habits can catch up with you once you get to your 50s and beyond.

“If you've been a smoker for a long time, been grinding your teeth for many years or have had a lot of dental work done in your younger years, there may be some stained, darker appearances to your teeth, or failing around your oral health.”

Here are Dr Madden’s top tips for looking after your teeth as you get older.

Certain medications can have side effects that affect oral health.

“Some medications can cause your mouth to go dry and reduce your saliva flow,” says Dr Madden. “Saliva is protective. It lubricates your mouth and neutralises any acids. If that protective effect is stopped, you can become at risk of dental decay.”

Your dentist can help you with prevention, and may recommend a different toothpaste or other methods to help prevent decay.

Some medicines can affect the way a dentist may approach your treatment. For example, medication for osteoporosis can affect the density of your jawbone. This may result in a referral to an oral surgeon for a tooth extraction, so it’s essential you tell your dentist about it.

Gums can recede as you age, as the tissue pulls away from the tooth. This can make it easy for bacteria to build up and cause inflammation or decay.

“When the tooth roots are a bit exposed, they’re softer than the hard enamel that goes over the tooth itself,” says Dr Madden.

Regular check-ups are essential, even if you wear dentures.

“It’s a misconception that you don’t need to visit the dentist if you have dentures,” says Dr Madden. “Dentists also check your soft tissues and do oral cancer screenings, so it’s important you maintain regular, twice-yearly visits.”

• Drink tap water. In most places across Australia, tap water contains fluoride. Fluoride helps protect teeth by slowing down the enamel break-down caused by acids as well as helping to strengthen existing tooth enamel. While bottled water also helps quench your thirst, keep in mind it is less likely to contain teeth-protecting fluoride.
• Limit consumption of sugary and acidic drinks or snacks. This includes flavoured milk-based drinks, fruit juices, fruit bars and muesli bars. Consider snacking on ‘tooth-friendly’ foods, such as cheese, nuts, apples, carrots and celery.
• Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol can contribute to tooth decay and dry mouth, and is also a risk factor for oral cancers.
• Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 to 3 minutes each time. If possible, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head so you reach all areas of your mouth. Brush your tongue as well for fresher breath.