A healthy smile can say a lot about your wellbeing. In fact, your oral health plays a huge role in your ability to eat, speak, learn and interact with others.
As we age, it’s essential to prioritize keeping our teeth, gums and mouths healthy. Just as you’d visit the doctor for your annual wellness visit, it’s important to make a yearly trip to the dentist for a routine cleaning and checkup.
Oral health goes a long way in affecting your overall health. Our mouths are the entry point for bacteria to get to our respiratory and digestive track. This means poor oral heal th can lead to numerous diseases and conditions in other areas of your body, such as cardiovascular disease, pneumonia or endocarditis, an infection in the heart that can spread to other parts of the body. Poor oral hygiene can worsen diabetes as well. But with regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist, you can help keep bacteria at bay.
Follow these tips to help maintain good dental and oral health.
Practice good oral hygiene
Thoroughly brush your teeth twice per day, and floss between your teeth to remove plaque — the thin film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth daily. These simple habits not only aid in warding off tooth decay, but also help set the stage for a healthy lifestyle. With all this brushing, you should also replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Visit the dentist
Your yearly coverage through Blue Cross may include dental coverage (please check your plan). A regular check-up and cleaning can do wonders for your teeth. Even if you have no teeth, it’s still important to regularly visit the dentist. Your dentist can help answer your questions and watch for any signs of oral cancer. If you have dentures, your dentist will want to make sure they fit well and are comfortable. To find an in-network dentist , contact the dental number on the back of your member ID card. Or, use the Find a Doctor tool at https://tinyurl.com/6279rm88.
Manage conditions
Some health conditions can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean. If you have arthritis, brushing your teeth can be a challenge. Try using an electric toothbrush, or buy a toothbrush with a large handle. People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing gum disease, so it’s important to work on controlling your diabetes. Talk to your dentist about any concerns, and develop a plan to make sure you can take good care of your teeth.
Review medications
If you’re on certain medications, dry mouth can be an unwanted side effect, which increases your risk of fungal infections, tooth decay and cavities. If this is the case, be sure to sip plenty of water throughout the day or chew sugarless gum. Your dentist may also make additional recommendations. You can also arrange a Comprehensive Medication Review with your pharmacist to take an in-depth look at your medication list. Learn more about the process by calling 866-873-5941 (TTY 711), Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time or at bluecrossmn.com/mtm.
SOURCES: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION, NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING, MAYO CLINIC