Oral health is an important part of overall health but also the most neglected one. Good oral hygiene habits should be instilled from an early age to avoid serious dental issues later. However, oral health needs and challenges can vary significantly across different life stages. Therefore, it’s crucial to adopt good oral care hygiene practices tailored to each family member’s unique requirements. This World Oral Health Day, Dr Anil Arora, CEO, FUTUREDENT, Specializing in Oral Medicine, Oral Diagnosis and Radiology sheds light on how oral health needs attention at every age and the right oral care strategies should be incorporated for each family member:

Oral Hygiene for Kids

Aged 0-12: Building a Strong Foundation

The foundation for lifelong oral health is laid during childhood. The primary focus at this stage is on establishing good oral hygiene habits and preventing tooth decay.

• Begin cleaning gums with a soft cloth before teeth erupt.
• Once teeth appear, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• Encourage brushing at least twice a day and supervise until they can brush effectively on their own.
• Limit their refined sugar consumption by limiting sugary foods and drinks to prevent cavities
• Take them for regular dental checkups

Oral Hygiene for Teenagers

Aged 13-19: Navigating New Challenges

Teenage years bring new challenges such as orthodontic issues and the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on oral health.

• Emphasise the importance of brushing at least twice a day and benefits of flossing daily.
• Encourage the use of mouthwash for added protection against cavities and bad breath.
• Discuss the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on oral health, and limiting sugary beverages.
• Consider orthodontic evaluation if needed for braces or other treatments.

Oral Hygiene for Adults

Aged 20-64: Maintaining Good Habits

As adults, maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups become even more critical. This is also the time when the effects of lifestyle choices on oral health become more evident.

• Go for dental visits every six months for regular checkup and cleaning.
• Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
• Consider using additional oral hygiene tools like interdental brushes or water flossers for thorough cleaning.
• Be mindful of diet choices and their impact on oral health, including limiting sugary and acidic foods.

Oral Hygiene for Older Adults

Aged 65 and above – Addressing Age-Related Changes

In older adults, oral health care needs to address age-related issues such as dry mouth, gum disease, and tooth decay while maintaining the oral hygiene practices established earlier in life.

• Be aware of age-related oral health issues like dry mouth, gum disease, and tooth decay.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste suitable for sensitive teeth.
• Stay hydrated and discuss any medication side effects with a dentist to address dry mouth.
• Consider regular dental check-ups to monitor oral health changes and address any issues promptly.

In conclusion, promoting optimal oral health at every life stage requires understanding and addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by each age group. By following these age-specific oral health strategies, families can ensure that each member maintains good oral hygiene practices tailored to their unique needs. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing, and flossing techniques, along with a balanced diet are key components of a comprehensive oral care routine.