Oral health issues change as we age and can require adjustments in our approach to dental care.

Gum disease, for instance, is often reversible but serious if left untreated. Lifestyle changes such as a change of diet, new oral hygiene practices, and the reduction or elimination of smoking can be all that’s needed.

The gums recede with age and expose areas of the tooth that lack enamel protection. Teeth can become very sensitive to hot and cold. Often, this can be relieved simply through the consistent use of toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

Gum disease can also be an indicator of more serious issues such as cancer and heart disease. So, regular dental checkups are important to determine the cause of these problems and to identify the right solution.

Cavities on the root surfaces are more likely to occur in older people so oral hygiene practices such as flossing and brushing with fluoride toothpaste are important. Diagnostics that detect cavities early can also help avoid more costly and serious procedures later.

Certain medications can cause dry mouth, another very common complaint among seniors. If ignored, it can cause damage to your teeth. We have strategies and treatments to help you avoid problems relating to dry mouth.

Tell us about any troubling issues next time you come in for your regular visit. Or, call to schedule an appointment sooner if you have more immediate concerns.

It’s spring and along with the glories of the season comes an opportunity to make some lifestyle suggestions that may decrease your tendency to grind your teeth. Officially known as bruxism, grinding can be caused by tension or anxiety. Symptoms include headaches and a sore jaw.

Before it leads to more serious and potentially costly measures, the first step is to try to reduce grinding through stress-reducing activities:

* Walk to work or home
* Park further away from work
* Tend a garden
* Enroll in yoga
* Reduce caffeine intake
* Get counseling for persistent problems
* Practice deeper breathing
* Go hiking on weekends

Children sometimes lose a baby tooth before the permanent tooth is ready to emerge. Common causes include decay and injury.

When that happens, neighboring teeth may shift toward that empty space. When the permanent tooth starts to come in, there may be inadequate space for it. Such crowding can cause your child’s teeth to become crooked and may result in speech and chewing problems.

A temporary space maintainer will keep surrounding teeth from migrating until the permanent tooth is ready to grow in.