According to Dr. Jack Ringer, past president and an accredited fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, aging isn’t the leading cause of tooth loss in older adults, gum disease is.

While some cases of gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease are caused by medications and existing health conditions and disease, the number one cause of gum disease in adults is poor oral hygiene resulting in poor oral health.

Create Healthy Oral Habits

If you are less than healthy when it comes to what you put in your mouth, you could be walking a tightrope. Dental Cosmetics in Anaheim Hills explains that a diet loaded with sugar and starchy foods will cause problems for teeth and gums. Enjoy a balanced diet that is full of fresh fruits and vegetables and load up on dairy, as it is full of calcium, which builds strong bones and strong teeth.

Enjoy Nutritious Food

What you eat helps keep your teeth strong and healthy. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with powerful antioxidants while nuts and legumes help your body fight inflammation and bacteria, which in turn protects teeth and gums.

Foods to Enjoy Include:

Cranberries-Fresh cranberries fight oral bacteria before it turns to plaque.

Calcium Loaded Foods-Milk, dairy products, and juices fortified with calcium are loaded with vitamin D promoting healthy bones and teeth. Calcium also helps protect against tooth loss. Cheese is another great food that protects against acid that causes decay.

Crisp Raw Veggies and Fruits-Carrots, apples, and nature’s dental floss, celery, clean plaque from between and top of teeth. Fresh veggies also freshen breath.

If you have missing teeth, or are having problems eating, it could affect your diet. If you aren’t able to enjoy nutritious foods because of mouth sores, missing teeth, jaw pain or any other oral discomfort schedule an appointment with your dentist in Orange County as you could become malnourished.

Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice a day is important regardless of age as it removes bacteria buildup and plaque. Brush for at least two minutes with a soft bristled brush. Be sure to change your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles start to fray, and don’t forget to brush your tongue as well.

Floss Your Teeth

Flossing is important, as it is the only way you can remove plaque from below your gum line and between your teeth. Pay special attention when you floss and don’t forget to go around each tooth. If you are unsure, ask your Anaheim Hills Dentist for a flossing refresher course for good oral health.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

It is imperative that you keep up with dental appointments and comprehensive dental appointments. A comprehensive dental exam includes an oral cancer screening which is vital for early detection.

If you follow Dr. Ringers Blog, you will know that your mouth is the gateway to your body. If it isn’t healthy, chances are, your body isn’t either.

If you would like more information regarding oral health regardless of your age, call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Ringer and his team from Dental Cosmetics in Anaheim Hills today.