How To Prevent Cavities After 40

As you age, your teeth and gums become more vulnerable to cavities. While preventive measures such as brushing and flossing are necessary for everyone, those over 40 may need to take extra steps to ensure that their teeth stay healthy. Here’s what Mableton Family Dentist recommends for cavity prevention after the age of 40.

Brush Twice a Day with Fluoride Toothpaste

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for keeping your teeth healthy. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel, which can prevent cavities from forming in the first place. Make sure to brush for two minutes each time and use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t abrade your gums or enamel. If possible, try using an electric toothbrush as it can be more effective at removing plaque than manual brushes.

Cut Down on Sugary Foods and Drinks

Sugary foods and drinks increase the risk of cavities because bacteria in your mouth feed off sugar, producing acids that wear away at enamel and cause cavities to form. Limiting sugary foods and drinks is key to preventing cavities after the age of 40, so try to avoid candy, soda, juice, cookies and other sweet treats as much as possible.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental checkups are essential for cavity prevention in adults over 40. During these visits, your dentist will look for signs of decay or any other issues that could lead to cavities in the future. It’s also important to have regular cleanings so that any plaque buildup can be removed before it has a chance to damage your teeth or gums. At Mableton Family Dentist we recommend visiting every six months for an exam and cleaning if you don’t have any other dental issues that require more frequent visits.

Contact Us Today!

Taking care of your teeth is an important part of staying healthy after the age of 40—so make sure you brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cut down on sugary foods and drinks, and visit Mableton Family Dentist regularly for exams and cleanings! Doing these three things will help keep your smile healthy well into old age!