How Dental Services Change As You Get Older
Dental Care For Kids
Regular dental care is essential for children, to help them set a solid foundation for lifelong oral health. We provide a comprehensive range of dental services for children at Kaplan Dental Clinic.
Starting with their first visit all through their school-aged years, we work with them to keep their smile 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.
Children who have a greater risk of tooth decay, or for those with special circumstances or needs, may need restorative dental care or customized treatments.
Teenager Oral Hygiene Needs
As teens develop and grow more independent, their dental care will need to grow with them. Preventive dental care will continue as they see the dentist every 9 months or so.
Most teens will start to become concerned with their appearance. It is the ideal time for our dentists to help educate them about the link 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.
Adult Dental Services
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 restorative services such as crowns, bridges or fillings are required, we are happy to offer these and address any questions and concerns you may have.
Senior Dental Care
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 for developing dental health problems, including:
- Dry mouth
- Tooth replacements or dentures
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease or periodontitis
Teeth may start to get less sensitive when it comes to pain from cavities or extreme temperatures. This is due to the fact that nerves begin to 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.