Is Arthritis Preventing You From a Healthy Smile?
By David L. Steed
As we all get older, maintaining proper care of our teeth can seem like a daunting task. Prescription medications and health conditions like arthritis that severely limit mobility in the hands and fingers can quickly deteriorate a healthy mouth. The circumstances of aging don’t have to be detrimental to your health. With the help of a proper Dental Provider, like the Center of Dental Professionals, you can continue to experience a beautiful smile.
The number one recommended practice for adults to maintain a healthy mouth is brushing teeth twice a day and flossing once per day to prevent oral health problems. These problems may include debilitating conditions like gum disease, root decay, tooth loss, dry mouth as well as a variety of other periodontal diseases. When proper tooth care is combined with regular visits to the dentist (every six months) people feel healthier and many individuals are able to sustain longer lives.
In 2008, a combined study by the American Dental Association and Crest/Oral-B found that most American adults believed that regular brushing techniques and visiting the dentist often were the key to proper mouth care. Of those individuals, 25% self-reported not having visited a dentist in the past year and an additional 54% only visited the dentist once.
It is because of this data that The Center of Dental Professionals urge all patients to visit the dentist regularly. With the help of a family dentist that you trust, most oral diseases are highly preventable or at the very least treatable with specialized care. Many healthcare providers are sensitive to the needs of their elderly patients and can make suggestions during consultation to meet individual circumstances. Other ailments such as arthritis, cancer treatments, and prescription medications should be discussed with your dentist to help them suggest alternative treatments to prevent bone loss or tooth decay.
At The Center of Dental Professionals we know that healthcare is a highly individual experience. Our amazing team of dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff want to find ways to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle for years to come. Please visit any of our office locations to discuss any concerns you might have about your oral health in Salt Lake City, Utah.
