Oral Health in Later Life: Caring for Teeth and Gums
Healthy teeth and gums make eating and speaking easier at any age. Learn daily care habits, what to watch for, and how to find affordable dental care.
The short version
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth daily are the foundation.
- Dry mouth is common with many medications and can affect your teeth.
- Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care, so look into Medicare Advantage plans, dental schools and community clinics.
In this guide
More people are keeping their natural teeth for life than in past generations. That is good news, and it also means caring for teeth and gums remains important well into later years. A healthy mouth makes it easier to eat a varied diet, speak clearly and feel confident when you smile.
Daily care basics
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently along the gumline for about two minutes. If arthritis makes brushing difficult, an electric toothbrush or a brush with a wider handle may be easier to use.
Clean between your teeth once a day. Floss, floss picks, small interdental brushes or water flossers all work. Choose the tool you are most likely to use consistently.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Rinse after meals with water if you cannot brush right away.
Caring for dentures
If you wear full or partial dentures:
- Remove and rinse them after eating.
- Brush them daily with a denture brush and cleaner, not regular toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
- Soak them overnight as your dentist recommends.
- Gently brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth.
- See your dentist if dentures become loose or cause sore spots.
Watch for dry mouth
Dry mouth is common in older adults, often as a side effect of medications. Saliva helps protect teeth, so a persistently dry mouth can raise the risk of cavities.
Helpful habits include sipping water throughout the day, chewing sugar-free gum, using a humidifier at night and limiting caffeine and alcohol. Let your dentist and doctor know if dry mouth is bothering you. They may suggest products designed to help or review your medications.
Signs to mention to your dentist
- Gums that bleed, are swollen or are pulling away from teeth
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Sores, patches or lumps in your mouth that do not heal within two weeks
- Pain or sensitivity when chewing
- Difficulty swallowing
Regular dental visits allow your dentist to spot problems early, including changes that may need further evaluation.
Food choices that support oral health
Limiting sugary snacks and drinks, especially sipping sweet drinks throughout the day, helps protect your teeth. Water, milk, cheese, crunchy vegetables and fresh fruits are good choices. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D supports healthy bones, including the jaw.
Paying for dental care
Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care, such as cleanings, fillings and dentures. Options to explore include:
- Medicare Advantage plans that include dental benefits. Compare what each plan covers and its annual limits.
- Standalone dental insurance or dental discount plans.
- Dental schools, where supervised students provide care at reduced cost.
- Community health centers, which often offer dental services on a sliding fee scale based on income.
- State Medicaid programs, which cover some dental services for adults in many states.
- Your local Area Agency on Aging, which can point you to programs in your community. You can find yours through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Ask your dentist's office about payment plans, and do not hesitate to ask for a written estimate before major treatment.
