Category: Healthy Living

Maintaining Oral Health in Your Golden Years

Posted on by goldenproportions

As we journey through life, our bodies change, and our oral health is no exception. Seniors in particular face unique challenges when it comes to dental care. This is why it is crucial to see your dentist in Reno ideally twice a year, as gum disease and cavities tend to become more prevalent with age. Even if you have diligently cared for your teeth throughout your life, aging can bring about wear and tear and other oral health issues. To ensure a healthy smile for years to come, follow these dental care tips tailored to seniors.

Adapt Your Brushing and Flossing Routine

Brushing and flossing are critical for seniors as they help reduce the risk of gum disease, which affects nearly half of all adults over 65 and can contribute to other health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Proper oral hygiene remains the foundation of good oral health, but as we age, our brushing and flossing habits may require adjustment. Diminished hand dexterity can make these tasks more challenging. To maintain oral health, it’s essential to find the right tools and techniques that suit your specific needs. 

Combat Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a prevalent concern for seniors and can result from certain medications that reduce saliva production, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics. Age-related changes in the salivary glands can also lead to this issue. Dry mouth, while uncomfortable, can have serious consequences, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Consult with your Reno dentist to address this problem effectively. Some recommended remedies may include:

  • Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production.
  • Limiting caffeine and alcohol that can exacerbate dry mouth.
  • Using mouthwash specifically formulated for dry mouth relief.

Prioritize Dental Visits

As we age, our susceptibility to tooth decay and oral infections increases, and maintaining oral hygiene can become more challenging. Neglecting oral health can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and other complications. Therefore, it is essential to schedule regular dental appointments, ideally every six months, to prevent and address issues promptly. Some older adults, especially those at higher risk for dental problems, may benefit from more frequent dental check-ups.

Tooth Loss Is Not Inevitable

When contemplating the impact of aging on oral health, many people automatically think of tooth loss. However, losing your teeth is not inevitable. The best approach to preserving your teeth as you age includes maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, eating a healthy diet, staying well-hydrated, avoiding smoking, and regularly visiting your dentist in Reno. In the event you do lose a tooth or two, consider options like dental bridges, dental implants, or dentures to replace them. A full set of teeth is crucial for both oral health and overall well-being.

Your Golden Years and Oral Health

Taking care of your teeth is essential at every age, but the approach may change as you grow older. Adapting your oral health care routine to address the unique challenges of aging is vital for preserving your dental health in your golden years. Remember, regular visits to your dentist and proactive oral hygiene are your best allies in maintaining a healthy and radiant smile throughout your life.

Essential Dental First Aid Items Every Family Should Have

Posted on by goldenproportions

Accidents can happen at any time, and dental emergencies are no exception. But having a well-equipped dental first aid kit at home can make a significant difference in handling unexpected dental issues promptly and effectively. Keep in mind that all dental emergencies should warrant a phone call to your dentist in Reno. However, having a specialized dental first aid kit can help you address oral health emergencies with precision before you can get in for an exam. 

The Basics of a Dental First Aid Kit

  • Gloves

Safety comes first. Disposable gloves ensure that you maintain proper hygiene while administering first aid.

  • Gauze Pads and Cotton Balls

These are versatile tools to help stop bleeding, cushion sensitive areas, and clean wounds.

  • Dental Mirror 

A dental mirror helps you see those hard-to-see areas.

  • Dental Floss and Floss Picks

These are essential for dislodging food particles stuck between teeth, which can cause discomfort or even infection.

  • Saline Solution

This is useful for rinsing out the mouth, cleansing wounds, and soothing irritation.

  • Temporary Dental Filling Material

A temporary filling can temporarily seal a cavity or a broken tooth, providing relief until you can see a dentist.

  • Dental Wax

This can be used to cover sharp or jagged edges of a broken tooth, braces, or other dental appliances, preventing further irritation or injury.

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Pain can be a major concern during dental emergencies, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Consult a dentist or healthcare provider about which pain relievers to include in your kit.

  • Clove Oil

Known for its natural numbing properties, clove oil can provide temporary relief for toothaches.

  • Emergency Dental Contact Information

Keep a list of emergency dental contacts, including your dentist in Reno.

Addressing Common Dental Emergencies

  • Toothache

A sudden toothache can be agonizing. Rinse your mouth with warm water, use dental floss to dislodge any debris, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but consult your dentist if the pain persists.

  • Chipped or Broken Tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water and collect any tooth fragments. If there’s bleeding, apply gauze with gentle pressure. Cover any sharp edges with dental wax and call your dentist.

  • Knocked-Out Tooth

Time is critical here. Handle the tooth by its crown (top), not the roots. Rinse it gently with water and try to place it back into the socket if possible. If that’s not feasible, store it in a container with milk or saliva, and seek dental care immediately.

  • Object Stuck Between Teeth

Use dental floss to gently remove the object. Never use sharp or pointed objects that could damage gums.

Every home should have a dental first aid kit. By being prepared to handle dental emergencies promptly, you can alleviate pain, prevent complications, and increase the chances of successful treatment when you’re able to reach a dentist. Remember that while a dental first aid kit is a useful tool, it’s not a substitute for professional dental care. Always consult your dentist in Reno for proper diagnosis and treatment after administering first aid.

3 Dental Issues That Can Affect Aging Patients

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

Health changes, including changes to our oral health, can feel inevitable as we age. The care you put into your smile can certainly affect the degree of those changes. If you maintained poor oral care habits, your smile can look worn and unhealthy. Patients with advanced gum disease can find themselves dealing with tooth loss. That being said, even patients who exhibit great preventive dental habits can require help with problems that develop in your later years. If you are worried about the quality of your smile, set time to talk with your dentist. They can make sure your teeth stay healthy, and can discuss cosmetic dental treatment to preserve your appearance. Continue reading “3 Dental Issues That Can Affect Aging Patients” →

Making Daily Diet Improvements That Protect Your Smile

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

Your teeth are exposed to risks each time you enjoy a meal. Oral bacteria will be able to feed on the sugars left behind on your teeth, and the digestive process of those bacteria can release acids that will eat into your enamel. By brushing and flossing regularly and effectively, you can remove those bacteria, and you can also remove anything left on your teeth that they can feeding on. Of course, when you pay attention to what you eat during the day, you can lower your risks. Sure, brushing and flossing are still vital, but you can lower your chances of suffering a cavity when you improve your diet. Combining smart daily care with routine dental care will help you sustain a healthy, problem-free smile. Continue reading “Making Daily Diet Improvements That Protect Your Smile” →

Yes, You Should Be Flossing Regularly

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

If you think of flossing as a “bonus” cleaning for your teeth, or only necessary when you feel something stuck between teeth, you are losing out on important preventive dental care. Think for a moment about what your teeth enjoy when you brush. You can thoroughly clean the front of teeth, and their tops, but the spaces between teeth are difficult to address. In order to protect these areas, you should floss at least one time every day. Addressing bacteria and food debris in these spaces will mean better defense against decay, because you will be fully addressing your teeth. Removing bacteria in these spaces can also be helpful in the fight against gum disease. Continue reading “Yes, You Should Be Flossing Regularly” →

How Your Drink Choices Affect Your Teeth

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

how your drink choices affect your teeth Certain flavored beverages can cause several problems for your teeth. You should be wary of beverages that are more acidic, are high in sugar, and/or have a darker appearance. All of these factors can indicate risks to the health of your teeth. Replacing flavored drinks with water can spare your teeth from stains, and lower your risk for developing a cavity. While these drinks can be fine in moderation, over-consumption could lead to problems with your oral health that require restorative treatments. Continue reading “How Your Drink Choices Affect Your Teeth” →

The Right Diet For Your Oral Health

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

the right diet for your oral health A commitment to good oral health means regular visits to your dentist, but it goes beyond routine checkups. To fully take care of your teeth and gums, you should be mindful of the decisions you make every day. The choices you make for your diet can have a significant impact on your oral health. By limiting your intake of foods that are higher in sugar, opting for water over flavored beverages, and watching out for foods that are more acidic, you can help keep your mouth in optimal health. Continue reading “The Right Diet For Your Oral Health” →

Do You Know What Conservative Dentistry Is?

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

conserdent Have you ever had a tooth pulled? Did you wish your dentist would simply pull your tooth rather than perform a root canal? Have you ever had a root canal? Do you wonder why your dentist doesn’t just pull your tooth rather than do a root canal? There is a philosophy behind dentistry and that philosophy is to practice minimally invasive or conservative dentistry. Do you know what conservative dentistry is? Take our quiz below to find out what you know about conservative dentistry.

Continue reading “Do You Know What Conservative Dentistry Is?” →

Soda and Your Smile

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

Group Drinking Soda When you reach for a cold, fizzy, flavored, carbonated drink, what do you call it? A cola? A Coke? A soda? A pop? A drink by any of these names will taste sweet, bubbly and refreshing. Unfortunately, just like many tasty treats, drinking soda on a regular basis comes with a price, especially in terms of your dental health. Reno dentists, Dr. William Wager and Dr. Brian Evans, will fill you in on the dangers of soft drinks. Continue reading “Soda and Your Smile” →

Oral Cancer Symptoms: Are you Familiar?

Posted on by Wager-Evans Dental

Smiling Man Michael Douglas is one of many public figures who has given a famous face to oral cancer. Mr. Douglas makes a fine role model for those battling the disease, because he has recovered quite well. Until hearing about a famous person’s battle with a certain type of cancer, many Americans don’t give particular malignancies a whole lot of thought. Fortunately, if you keep up with your six month dental checkups, you’ll have a great chance of catching any oral cancer as early as possible. Continue reading “Oral Cancer Symptoms: Are you Familiar?” →