How Often Should Elderly Adults Visit the Dentist?

Finding a dentist you feel comfortable with is one of the most important steps toward optimal dental health.

This is particularly important for aging adults who are susceptible to various dental conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, cavities and tooth loss.

Once you’ve found the dentist you prefer, the next thing to do is to figure out a schedule for routine dental care.

For aging seniors, the rule of thumb when it comes to visiting the dentist’s office is at least twice a year.

Even if you’ve been regular with your brushing habits and enjoy a healthy diet, bi-annual cleanings and inspections help you maintain oral hygiene and serve as preventive measures against various dental conditions.

According to the ADA, each person is different and therefore their differentiating lifestyle habits determine their dental health when they age. Some teeth may require more or less care than others.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution here. It is really important to discuss your dental issues with your dentist and figure out a schedule that works for you. The frequency of your visits will depend on your overall health and other factors including diabetes, smoking, and other age related health conditions.

Apart from routine dental care, for aging seniors, there may be times when they will need to visit the dentist for other reasons.

Pain that appears all of a sudden like severe sensitivity when chewing should be immediately addressed by your dentist. Similarly, signs of bleeding in gums, tooth loss, excess dry mouth sensation and mouth ulcers require immediate attention.

As an aging senior, make sure you schedule at least two appointments with the dentist every year. However, if you have pre-existing conditions, reach out to your dentist to figure out a comprehensive dental care plan.

As the leading team of dentists in Alexandria, we make sure that elderly adults get the care they deserve. Schedule an appointment with us to find out how often you should really visit us.