As adults get into their 60s, they can become more prone to cavities than they were even just a few years before. Why is this? It could be a side effect of medications that you’ve been prescribed. Your medication’s side effects can leave you more vulnerable to developing cavities. Cavities can be caused because of dry mouth, which is a side effect of many medications, such as those used to treat pain, depression, cholesterol, high blood pressure, and many others. There are ways to avoid dry mouth and, thusly, avoid developing cavities at a later age.
Stay Healthy And Smile Happily
You should talk with your dentist about ways to deal with your dry mouth. Your dentist may recommend helpful tips such as:
- Help stimulate your mouth’s saliva production by chewing sugar free gum.
- Keep water on you at all times and drink any time your notice that your mouth is getting dry. Invest in a water bottle that is easy to carry around with you.
- Consult with your doctor about changing your prescribed medication or dosage.
- Don’t eat any food or drink anything that can dehydrate you such as soda, alcohol, and coffee.
- Ask your dentist to apply a topical fluoride gel to help protect your teeth from decay. This fluoride treatment helps strengthen your enamel, the protective layer that surrounds your teeth and combats cavity-causing plaque and tartar.
Besides combating dry mouth and cavities, you should continue to schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. These visits can allow you and your dentist to catch cavities, infections, and gum disease before they become more of a nuisance.
Improve Your Life Through Dentistry
Our dentists can provide you with implant, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry options to help you have the best smile possible. Contact us at our local Shrewsbury, MA office at 508-842-8838.
