Rinsing for Older Adults
As an older adult, you will find that rinsing can help prompt the production of saliva in your mouth, which is crucial to limiting bacteria and keeping gums healthy. The basic steps of twice-daily rinsing are the same for you as for everyone who wants a cleaner, healthier mouth. Refer to the tips below for guidance.
Mouth Fact
The Crucial Role Saliva Plays In Your Oral Health
Common Oral Problems
4 TRUTHS THAT PROTECT YOUR GUMS (AND TEETH)
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS
SALIVA STATUS
As we age, we typically begin producing less saliva in the mouth because of factors such as menopause or side effects of prescription medications (rest assured that LISTERINE® rinse usage does not impact saliva status). This condition is known as dry mouth. The reduction in saliva can result in weaker gums and teeth over time. If having an adequate amount of saliva is a concern for you, try these tips to increase saliva production:
Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily and sip often.
Suck on sugar-free hard candy.
Suck on small chips of ice (but avoid chewing on hard ice, which can harm teeth).
KEEP UP WITH DENTIST VISITS
Keeping a clean, healthy mouth you can be proud of involves more than just home care. Schedule appointments with your dentist at least every 6 months. And know that as you get older, your dentist may suggest scheduling more frequent checkups, such as every 3 months. Remember, when plaque progresses into tartar it can only be removed by professional tools used during dentist cleanings. Note: If you no longer have teeth, you still require trips to see the dentist to have your soft gum tissue and dentures examined.
USE SMART TOOLS
Toothbrushes with soft bristles or electric toothbrushes
Fluoride toothpaste
LISTERINE®
Antiseptic mouthwash that kills germs that cause bad breath, plaque and gum disease
LISTERINE®
dental floss to clean between teeth.
To keep breath fresh on the go, pick up a pack of LISTERINE POCKETPAKS®
breath strips or LISTERINE POCKETMIST®
spray mist.
Why Mouthwash?
Brushing Teeth Reaches Only 25% Of Your Mouth