You probably know how to take care of your teeth — brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist regularly are all important parts of your oral health routine. But keeping these good habits still takes work, even when you know what to do. Two-thirds of older adults have some level of gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And many do not get dental checkups twice a year.

“Preventive oral care is crucial to overall health, at all stages of life,” says Nipa Thakkar, DMD, of Thakkar Dental Care in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Here are some reasons why it’s so important to be proactive when taking care of your smile.

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1. You’ll keep your mouth and teeth healthy

Your dentist is looking for more than just cavities during a regular checkup. They can detect other oral health issues too, including:

• Temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, issues in the jaw joints
• Bite imbalances that can cause headaches and tooth breakage
• Tooth decay, clenching and grinding
• Misalignment of your teeth or jaw that can lead to trouble chewing, speaking and breathing
• Muscle tension
• Gum disease

Regular trips to the dentist can help identify these problems early, before they lead to more serious problems like tooth loss. It’s better for your wallet to find those issues early, too. As problems get worse over time, they can get more expensive to treat.

Your dentist may also talk to you about your daily at-home oral care routine. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends choosing a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head that can reach all areas of your mouth.* Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If the bristles are frayed, replace it sooner.

Do you have arthritis or limited movement? An electric toothbrush may be easier to use. And if you wear dentures, use special denture-cleaning formulas. Other cleaners may be too abrasive and damaging.

Experts recommend brushing your teeth two to three times a day and flossing at least once a day. As a bonus, you’ll enjoy fresher breath and whiter teeth. Plus, your dentist will likely notice your good home care at your appointments — and cleanings might go faster, too.

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2. You may develop other medical problems

In addition to teeth problems, your dentist can spot early signs of other serious medical conditions that you can discuss with your primary care provider. Like heart disease, diabetes and pneumonia.

“Heart disease, diabetes and pneumonia are known health conditions in older adults that have a relationship with oral health,” says Thakkar.

Your exam can also play a role in spotting oral cancer, head and neck issues, nutrition deficiencies and sleep-related breathing disorders at early, more treatable stages.

3. You may eat healthier

A full set of healthy teeth, or dentures that fit properly, will help you chew foods that are part of a well-balanced diet, like lean meats and crunchy vegetables.

If you have tooth pain or dentures that don’t fit well, you may want to eat softer foods like baked goods that are lower in nutrients and don’t help your mouth stay clean. A dentist can help repair or replace teeth or make sure your dentures fit well and are doing their job.

The ADA recommends replacing dentures at least every five years.*

4. You may find solutions for medication side effects

Some medications can cause things like dry mouth. This is a condition that can lead to tooth decay. It lets food and acids build up on your teeth, which can damage them.

Bring your current list of medications to every dentist visit. Your dentist can keep an eye out for dry mouth and other drug side effects and recommend solutions, like an over-the-counter (OTC) saliva substitute or an alcohol-free mouthwash.

5. You’ll make up for lost time

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you may be scared or nervous about going back. But take heart: The benefits of going can far outweigh any uncomfortable feelings.

“Patients often confess that they wish they had done a better job of taking care of their teeth in their lifetime. Often, this is a result of a misunderstanding about the importance of oral care,” says Thakkar. “The good news is that it is never too late to begin caring for your teeth by establishing a regular dental health regimen, including having a dental ally on your side.”

Smile! Annual dental exams are a covered part of your plan.

All Allina Health | Aetna Medicare Advantage plans include preventive dental coverage for oral exams, cleanings and X-rays. You can learn more in your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document. Find your EOC on your plan web page or secure member website. Or call Member Services at 1-833-570-6671 (TTY: 711). They are available 8 AM to 8 PM, Monday to Friday. They can answer any questions you have about your plan and coverage.

*FOR ADA RECOMMENDATIONS ON TOOTHBRUSHES SOURCE: American Dental Associations. Home Oral Care. Accessed May 23, 2024.

*FOR ADA RECOMMENDATIONS ON DENTURES SOURCE: American Dental Associations. Denture care and Maintenance.  Accessed May 23, 2024.

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