“Teeth are taken for granted—until they start hurting.”
That was the opening line from the recent LIVE2B100 podcast hosted by Simpli5 featuring Dr. Smita Athavale, Senior Prosthodontist and Founding Member of the Association for Geriatric Dentistry (AGeD). And she’s right.
We often neglect our teeth in our daily health routines, only to realize their value when dental problems—usually painful ones—come knocking. But your teeth aren’t just tools for chewing. They influence your nutrition, appearance, emotional health, and overall well-being, especially as you age.
If you haven’t watched the video yet, click below. It’s packed with practical tips and common mistakes seniors must avoid.
Here are the 6 most valuable insights Dr. Athavale shared to help seniors—and everyone—protect their smiles for life:
1. Brush Smart, Not Just Hard
- Rinse your mouth first thing in the morning.
- Brush after breakfast, not before—it helps clean food remnants and freshens your breath for the day.
- Overbrushing is also not recommended since it can lead to loss of enamel. And enamel is one tissue of the body that once lost does not come back or regenerate.
- Night brushing is critical: Brush and floss before bed to avoid overnight bacterial buildup and tooth decay.
2. Protect Your Enamel
- Be gentle with your brush. Excessive pressure erodes enamel—a layer that, once lost, cannot regenerate.
- Erosion can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Use soft-bristled brushes and avoid abrasive toothpaste unless prescribed.
3. Mouthwash is specific to gums or teeth issues
- Water in itself is a great mouthwash for every day.
- Use of floride or an antiseptic mouthwash will be adviced by your dentist only in case of any specific problems with gums or teeth.
4. Don’t Skip Your Annual Dental Check-Up
- A once-a-year visit can catch early signs of decay, gum issues, or wear and tear on prosthetics. Actually, six monthly visits is ideal.
- Prevention is always cheaper and less painful than cure.
5. Be Kind to Your Teeth
- Avoid biting into hard foods like walnuts or whole guavas/apples. Sticky foods like chikki, caramel candies / chocolates should be avoided if you already have teeth problems or dental treatment in progress or already done.
- Instead, cut fruits and crack nuts before eating to prevent tooth fractures or damage to dentures or crowns.
6. Waking Up With a Tired Jaw?
- If you feel jaw fatigue despite restful sleep, you may be clenching or grinding your teeth at night.
- This can wear out your teeth and affect facial muscles.
- Consult your dentist—they may recommend a night guard to protect your smile while you sleep.
Your Smile Is an Asset
Beyond its functional role, your smile reflects your confidence, warmth, and energy. Dr. Athavale reminded us that a simple, healthy smile can open doors, ease tensions, and bring joy—not just to others, but to ourselves
