Teeth are essential at different times of life, and their care is essential, since they allow us to correctly ingest food through the chewing process, with tearing and cutting, and in this way they are prepared to be able to swallow later. with the digestive process, key to our health.
during childhood
- Before the appearance of teeth in babies, their mouths should be cleaned with a damp cloth, since breast milk or formula leaves residues that, when decomposed, can cause a bad odor.
- The teeth generally begin to appear between 6 and 12 months, almost always the first to come out are the lower frontal teeth (lower central incisors). Most children usually have all their milk teeth by 3 years of age.
- It is essential to create correct oral health habits, since these are the basis for adult life. Good hygiene will not only avoid complications, but will also leave good habits that will be repeated in the future.
- Encourage daily brushing after each meal.
- Brush your teeth for about two minutes each time you do it.
- Alert children to the importance of avoiding swallowing toothpaste and using the correct cream for age, with or without fluoride.
- Explain to children about milk teeth, how long they will be, and about the appearance of permanent teeth and the importance of their care.
adult life
It is proven that people with weak immune systems are more likely to have higher levels of infections in the mouth. Also that gastrointestinal, respiratory and vascular diseases affect the state of oral health. In addition to having our integral health monitored and controlled, we must have good habits such as:
- Visit the dentist at least every 6 months and establish a more specific control if there is any condition that warrants it.
- Maintain a correct brushing of the teeth.
- Use dental floss correctly.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Avoid cigarette smoking.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Avoid eating foods that damage dental enamel such as hard candies, acid drinks, cakes, pasta, ice, nuts.
- Avoid aggressive brushing. This should generally be done with a soft bristle brush. It is very important that the toothbrush is replaced when its bristles wear out or after three months of use. Likewise, it must be replaced in case the older adult has suffered a cold, since the filaments accumulate germs that can cause a new infection.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Treats heartburn and eating disorders.
old age
The oral health of the elderly is very important, since this aspect greatly influences their psychological aspect. The mouth and teeth are directly related to the possibility of communicating spontaneously, with their ability to establish interpersonal relationships without fear of smiling or being stigmatized for their appearance. This is why having good oral health results in the general quality of life of the person.
- Educate the elderly and caregiver.
- Select the right toothbrush
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush three times a day. Remember that if it is impossible for the older adult to brush their teeth or rinse their mouth, you can use a damp gauze pad to remove food debris from the teeth and gums.
- Cleaning the removable dental prosthesis.
- Massage the oral mucosa.
- Remove the dental prosthesis overnight.
- It is recommended that the elderly visit the dentist at least every 6 months and also when or when necessary. Regular visits can help detect dental problems early and start prompt treatment.
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