Dental health in old age How oral care needs change with age and which products are most suitable Our oral health is an important aspect of our overall wellbeing that is often underestimated as we age. While we promote and maintain our dental health in our youth and middle age, it is just as crucial to maintain these efforts as we age. Why? Because our oral care needs change as we age. In this article, we take an in-depth look at how dental health evolves as we age and what products and interventions are best suited to support it. Changes in oral health in old age As we age, our oral health undergoes a variety of changes that can have a direct impact on our overall health and quality of life. These changes include: Tooth loss: Tooth loss is more common with age, whether due to tooth decay, periodontal disease or other health problems. Tooth loss can affect chewing and speaking functions and impair self-confidence. Dry mouth (xerostomia): Saliva production decreases with age, which can lead to dry mouth. This problem is not only unpleasant, but also increases the risk of tooth decay and other oral problems, as saliva plays an important role in neutralizing acids and protecting the teeth. Gum disease: Older people have an increased risk of gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Sensitive teeth: Teeth often become more sensitive with age, which can make eating and drinking painful. This can be due to the breakdown of tooth enamel and exposed tooth necks. Changes in the oral mucosa: The oral mucosa becomes thinner with age and more susceptible to injury, infection and inflammation. Products and measures for dental care in old age The good news is that there are a variety of products and measures that can help older people maintain their oral health: Electric toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes are particularly effective at removing plaque and cleaning the gum line. They are also easier to handle than manual toothbrushes and are therefore ideal for people with limited mobility. Special toothpastes: There are toothpastes that have been specially developed for sensitive teeth. These often contain soothing ingredients that can reduce pain and strengthen tooth enamel. Some toothpastes also contain a higher concentration of fluoride to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Mouthwashes: Mouthwashes with fluoride can help prevent tooth decay and freshen breath. For people with dry mouth, there are special mouthwashes that moisturize and protect the mucous membrane. Dental floss and interdental brushes: Cleaning the spaces between the teeth is crucial to remove plaque and food debris that can accumulate there. Dental floss and interdental brushes are essential for this. Denture cleaner: Special cleaning agents are necessary for people with dentures to prevent bacterial growth and bad breath. Tongue scraper: A tongue scraper can help reduce bad breath by removing tongue plaque, which is often the cause of bad breath. Adjusting your diet: A balanced diet with sufficient intake [...]

Fluoride in toothpaste A radiant smile is not only an aesthetic feature, but also an indicator of general oral health. When it comes to taking care of our teeth, fluoride plays a crucial role. In this article, we will take a closer look at this fascinating mineral and explain why it can be found in almost every toothpaste. What is fluoride? Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that is widely distributed in the earth's crust. It has been shown to be extremely effective in preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel. Most people are probably familiar with fluoride primarily in connection with toothpaste, but it is also found in drinking water, certain foods and even in the air. Why is fluoride important for our teeth? Fluoride plays a crucial role in dental health for several reasons: Caries prevention: Fluoride is a true caries warrior. It strengthens tooth enamel, the outermost protective layer of our teeth, and makes it more resistant to the harmful acid attacks caused by the activity of oral bacteria. These acids are one of the main causes of tooth decay, as they gradually break down the enamel and leave holes in the teeth. Fluoride has the amazing ability to solidify and harden the mineral structure of enamel, providing teeth with a better defense against decay. Remineralization: Fluoride is not only a protective shield, but also a miracle cure for repairing already damaged tooth surfaces. If caries lesions are detected at an early stage, fluoride can help to remineralize the enamel. This means that the lost mineral content of the teeth can be restored to some extent, helping to halt the progressive damage and strengthen the tissue. This is particularly important as tooth decay, if left untreated, can penetrate deeper into the tooth and lead to painful infections. Bacteria control: The oral cavity is a microbial biotope in which numerous types of bacteria exist. Some of these bacteria are responsible for acid production, which damages tooth enamel. Fluoride can reduce the activity of these harmful bacteria and thus reduce the risk of tooth decay. By controlling the bacterial population in the mouth, fluoride helps to balance the oral flora, which in turn leads to better dental health. How does fluoride in tooth cream work? Toothpastes with fluoride work by applying the fluoride directly to your teeth. When you brush your teeth, a thin film of fluoride forms around your teeth. This film strengthens the enamel and helps to protect the teeth from acid attacks. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride tooth cream for optimal results. Are there any risks or concerns associated with fluoride? Fluorosis: One of the main disadvantages of overexposure to fluoride is the development of fluorosis. This is a cosmetic disorder that manifests as visible discoloration and stains on the teeth. In most cases, this occurs when fluoride is ingested in large quantities during tooth formation in childhood. This is often due to the excessive use of fluoride [...]