Ages 1 to 100: Oral Health Tips for Every Phase of Life

By Alyssa Stout, DDS



As we journey through life, our oral health needs evolve just as we do. From our first toothy grins of infancy to those wise smiles of our golden years, nurturing our health at every stage is essential for overall good health and well-being. In this month’s article, we’ll go over a few simple reminders about oral health at each stage of life.

Early Beginnings: Infant and Toddler Care

The foundation of oral health begins in infancy. Gentle cleaning of baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feeding helps remove bacteria and prevent early decay. As teeth begin to surface, switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants can aid in keeping those budding teeth clean. Avoiding sugary beverages can also contribute to a healthier mouth.

Around the age of one or when the first tooth emerges, regular visits to the dentist should begin. These early visits will help monitor dental development and foster conversations about oral care techniques and other topics specific to your child.

Growing Up: Childhood and Adolescent Care

As children grow, so do responsibilities. This period is all about learning. Parents and teachers focus on helping children develop healthy dental habits and teach proper brushing and flossing techniques. Try to make learning fun to help foster a love of learning – even when it comes to learning dental habits.

Adulthood: Prioritizing Oral Health

As we enter adulthood, our healthy habits instilled in childhood may begin to fade away. Suddenly, other aspects of life seem to become more important. The stresses of adulthood, coupled with less frequent brushing and flossing, tobacco or alcohol use, or poor diets can all pose risks to our oral health. Bruxism, cavities, gum disease, misaligned teeth and tooth loss are just a few issues that may begin to emerge. Routine brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, learning how to reduce stress, and focusing on a healthy diet, are all positive simple steps to take in adulthood.

Golden Years: Oral Health in Aging

Our oral health needs continue to evolve as we age. Changes in saliva production, medication use, and chronic health conditions may begin to impact our oral health. Regular dental visits become even more critical to prevent issues such as gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth decay.

Good oral hygiene habits include gentle brushing with a soft-bristled brush and daily flossing. And, staying physically active and engaged in social activities can also positively influence oral health by reducing the risk of depression and isolation, which can lead to neglecting dental care.

It’s All About Perspective

When you think about it, caring for our oral health is actually pretty simple. Whether you believe it will be easy or hard, you’re right. Just remember, developing healthy habits early on in life can be one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.

At Drs. Stenger, Cole, Gupta and Stout, we always enjoy conversations about oral health care in our communities. We feel privileged to serve the oral healthcare needs of individuals and families throughout every stage of life – from the age of 1 to 100. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while or you’re seeking a new dentist, our doors are always open. Learn more about our dental family at www.richmonddentist.net.