Your Moose Jaw Invisalign® Provider
In this post, our Moose Jaw dentists explain the ins and outs of general dental care services and how these services help family members of different ages keep their smiles healthy.
How do the dental services I need to maintain my oral health change as I get older?
Kids
Regular dental care is essential for children, to help them set a solid foundation for lifelong oral health. At Aspen Dental we provide a comprehensive range of dental services for kids from infants to toddlers, preschool, and beyond.
Starting with their first visit (ideally at six months of age) and all through their school-aged years, we work with children to help keep their smiles healthy. We provide regular cleanings and exams and review proper preventive hygiene techniques at each appointment to ensure their teeth receive appropriate care at home.
If your child faces a higher risk than average of tooth decay, or has special circumstances or needs, restorative dental services or customized treatment plans may be recommended.
Teens
As teens develop and grow more independent, their dental care will need to grow with them. Preventive dental care will continue to be a key aspect of their dental care each time they visit their dentist.
Of course, appearance is important to many of us at this age and having a healthy, white smile can often help teens to feel more confident. Your team of dental professionals will educate your teen about the connection between dental hygiene practices and the appearance of their smiles.
If orthodontic care is needed, teens will be referred to an orthodontist for assessment and perhaps require treatment with braces, clear aligners, a retainer or other appliances.
Adults
Many people develop early stage gum disease in adulthood, potentially resulting in painfully swollen gums and other oral health issues. Preventive care should continue to be top of mind for adults, including at-home care and regular visits to the dentist for hygiene cleanings.
Many people will need their wisdom teeth removed in early adulthood. Sometimes, oral surgery, specialized care, appliances or other treatments will be recommended for specific issues such as TMJ Disorder or sleep apnea.
If you require restorative services such as crowns, bridges or fillings are required, our team at Aspen Dental is happy to offer these and address any questions and concerns you may have.
Seniors
As you age, your mouth and teeth will naturally change, and you may also have new needs in terms of medications. This can increase your risk of developing dental health problems, including:
- Dry mouth (caused by medications)
- Need for tooth replacements or dentures
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease or periodontitis
You may notice your teeth are getting less sensitive to things like pain from cavities or hot or cold temperatures. This is because the nerves in your teeth can shrink as you get older. Conversely, if gum tissue recedes this could cause your teeth to become more sensitive as root tissue is left exposed.
Buildup of plaque and wear on your tooth enamel can also leave you susceptible to other problems. A dentist can examine your smile and help address these by recommending appropriate treatments such as dental implants, restorative services, a gum graft, gum therapy or oral surgery.