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Senior citizens are susceptible to many health issues. They are prone to colds and flu bugs as well as many other diseases that can affect a lower immune system. That’s why whenever it is cold and flu season, experts urge the very young and the old to go and get flu shots or to stay indoors and away from groups of people. The same precaution needs to be taken with seniors and their dental health. Getting diagnosed with gingivitis can be alarming and eye-opening. Gingivitis can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle and regular dental checkups.

Regular Dental Checkups

Even is a senior cannot drive, they should have access to regular dental checkups. Family members should arrange for transportation, see about visiting dentists or even if there is senior transportation available in the city they live in. A dentist can see the condition of the mouth and offer any suggestions on how to improve the health of the gums. The dentist can also scrape away any plaque buildup that has begun so gingivitis does not set in or get worse.

Brushing Daily

A senior is no different than a child or an adult when it comes to brushing. Brushing should be done after each meal or at least twice daily if possible. Seniors might also have to deal with dentures, so the dentures need to be cared for too. Plaque can build up between the gums and the material made up of the false teeth if they are not properly cared for daily. Gingivitis can occur around any gum tissue, whether it is next to real teeth or artificial ones.

Flossing Regularly

Whether a senior has false or real teeth, they all need to be flossed. The food particles can cause as many problems in artificial teeth as they can the real ones. Flossing will eliminate the food particles between the real teeth, so that bacteria won’t build up. When the bacteria can’t form plaque, then gingivitis can’t take form in the mouth either.

Healthy Diet and Exercise

For seniors, healthy diet and exercise is important for their overall health, not just that of their mouth. When their bodies are active, then their whole system benefits from the exercise. Eating foods such as fruits and vegetables is also a smarter option that cookies and donuts. The less sugar consumed, the fewer bacteria there will be in the mouth.  Plus the fruits rich in vitamin C will help promote stronger gums that can fight off gingivitis.