To maintain optimum oral health, it’s important to visit the dentist during every stage of life. Many children first visit a dentist as an infant to obtain an oral health exam. During these early visits, dentists also counsel young patients and their parents about pacifier use and thumb sucking, which can be detrimental to oral health. When seeing older children, dentists offer gentle guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques while providing a thorough cleaning and exam, including X-rays.
For adult patients, dentists perform a wide array of procedures, including routine cleanings and restorative dentistry. Many adults find that as they age, they need fillings, crowns, root canals, or other procedures to repair damage, whether it’s from regular wear and tear or from some kind of trauma.
Senior citizens often require specialized dental care. For example, dentists must consider potential drug reactions, as older populations are more likely to use prescription medications than other age groups are. In addition, the nerves in the mouths of older adults can shrink, thus making it more difficult for older patients to recognize the warning signs of cavities and other developing oral issues. In many cases, seniors can also benefit from implants and partial or full dentures.