How to make dental checkups more comfortable for older patients

read Senior Oral Health
Dentist giving a dental exam to an older adult.

Key takeaways about making dental checkups comfortable for older patients:

  • Older adults may have unique dental care needs. Age-related health conditions, medications, and physical limitations can affect both oral health and comfort during dental visits.
  • Simple accommodations can improve the patient experience during dental checkups. Clear communication, accessible facilities, and comfort-focused care help seniors feel more relaxed and supported.
  • Routine dental checkups are important for older patients as they can detect problems early and help maintain long-term oral health and quality of life.
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Are you getting the most out of your dental insurance?

read Insurance Resources and Dental Benefits
Dental assistant working on a patient in the dental chair.

Key takeaways about getting the most out of dental insurance:

  • Understanding your dental insurance is the first step to getting the most value from your benefits.
  • Preventive care is often covered at little to no cost, making regular dental visits one of your most valuable benefits.
  • Choosing in-network providers can help lower out-of-pocket costs.
  • Reviewing your plan and asking questions can help make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.
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What does the future of dental care look like?

read Dental Trends
X-ray of a persons mouth.

Key takeaways about the future of dental care: 

  • Dental providers are placing greater emphasis on preventive care, patient education, routine screenings, and healthy habits to help patients take charge of their oral health.
  • New technologies like AI tools, digital imaging, teledentistry, and 3D printing are helping improve diagnosis, treatment planning, patient communication, accessibility, and overall convenience.
  • From customized treatment plans to more convenient virtual care and sustainable practices, the future of dental care is focused on improving patient experiences and supporting long-term oral health.
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Beyond the toothbrush: Oral health helpers

read Lifestyle
Person flossing their teeth in the bathroom mirror.

Key takeaways about oral health helpers:

  • There’s no substitute for a consistent oral health routine, but oral health helpers can be great additions to your dental care routine.
  • Plaque disclosing tablets, mouth mirrors, tongue scrapers, water flossers, dry mouth oral rinses, and teeth whitening strips can all contribute to a healthier mouth.
  • Talk with your dentist about which of these oral health helpers is the right fit for you.
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Hydration & your mouth: Oral health benefits of water

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Person drinking water and smiling.

Key takeaways about the benefits of water:

  • Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food debris, sugar, and harmful acids that can damage teeth.
  • Fluoridated water can strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent cavities and tooth decay.
  • Proper hydration helps your body produce enough saliva to protect your mouth, reduce bacteria, and prevent dry mouth.
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What is tooth reshaping?

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Person at the dentist getting their tooth reshaped.

Key takeaways about tooth reshaping

  • Tooth reshaping is a procedure where small amounts of enamel are gently removed to smooth chips, correct minor imperfections, and create a more balanced, symmetrical smile.
  • It is typically completed in a single visit with no recovery downtime and is best suited for adults with healthy teeth and gums.
  • Tooth reshaping should only be done by a dental professional to avoid risks like sensitivity or damage.
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How to protect your eyes at the pool

read Vision Benefits
Woman swimming in the pool with sunglasses on.

Key takeaways about protecting your eyes in the pool:

  • Protecting your eyes is important, especially when you’re enjoying time at the pool. Don’t let eye problems ruin your summer fun!
  • Although chlorine does a great job of keeping water clean, it also doesn’t eliminate everything that can harm your eyes.
  • Wearing sunglasses both in and out of the pool is a great way to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
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The link between Alzheimer’s and periodontal bacteria

read Senior Oral Health
Older adult and doctor looking at a brain scan.

Key takeaways about the connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease:

  1. Periodontitis, also called gum disease, is a chronic oral health condition that can affect more than your mouth.
  2. Research has found that having gum disease may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease through inflammation and bacteria that can migrate to the brain.
  3. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can help prevent gum disease and support long-term health.
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Does sitting too close to the TV really cause vision damage?

read Vision Benefits
Little girl sitting to close to the TV.

Key takeaways about sitting close to a TV and vision damage:

  • Sitting close to a TV does not cause permanent vision damage. The idea that it does is a myth rooted in a 1960s manufacturing error in which certain TVs emitted radiation.
  • Smartphones and computers are a greater threat to your eye health than TVs. Prolonged near-work activities on phones and computers can cause the eyeball to elongate over time, increasing the risk of developing myopia.
  • Taking regular breaks, blinking frequently, adjusting screen brightness, and using computer/blue light glasses are easy ways to keep your eyes healthy in a screen-heavy world.
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