Healthy Habits for Lifelong Smiles
As we age, keeping a healthy smile isn’t just about brushing and flossing. A recent study highlighted by the ADA found that lifestyle behaviours and socioeconomic factors play a major role in whether older adults retain their natural teeth. ADA News
Why this matters to you
At [Your Practice Name], our mission is to support you in maintaining not only straight teeth, but strong, healthy ones. Understanding the bigger picture of oral health helps you make proactive choices — no matter your age.
What the study found
- Researchers followed over 3,000 participants from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (2006 to 2015). ADA News
- They identified two groups: one with healthy behaviours, one with risk-prone behaviours (smoking, poor diet, etc.). The healthier group was more likely to retain their natural teeth. ADA News
- Interestingly, social support networks alone weren’t directly linked with keeping teeth — rather, they influence behaviour patterns (which in turn matter). ADA News
- Socioeconomic status had both direct and indirect influence on tooth-loss risk, emphasising that behaviours + context matter. ADA News
What this means for older adults and families
If you or a loved one are in the later stages of life (or simply planning ahead), these findings are relevant:
- Healthy behaviours = better odds of keeping natural teeth.
- It’s not just about brushing: quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining regular dental care all play a role.
- If finances or access to care are tight, the risk of tooth loss increases — but awareness and early action help.
- Even if social support is strong, without healthy habits the benefits may be limited; habits are the key link.
Tips from our orthodontic practice to support your oral health journey
- Stay consistent with dental visits. Even if you’ve had braces in the past, regular check-ups matter as your mouth changes.
- Prioritise daily habits:
- Brush twice a day and floss once daily.
- Limit tobacco and excessive alcohol — both raise risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
- Eat nutrient-rich foods: plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy or alternatives for calcium.
- If you’re older and worried about tooth loss:
- Talk to us early — even slight changes in gum health or tooth stability warrant a check-in.
- Investigate options early. Keeping natural teeth is always the best path when feasible.
- Ask about our services: at our practice, we offer specialised care for older adult patients including supportive orthodontic evaluation, gum health screening, and referral coordination if needed.
- Stay informed and engaged. Knowledge is power — this study reminds us that strong oral health in later life is multifactorial, not just about brushing harder.
Why choose Orthosdontos
At Orthosdontos, we believe in a holistic approach: we support straightening teeth, preserving them, and promoting overall oral wellness. Whether you’re an adult patient seeking orthodontic treatment or a senior concerned about retaining your natural teeth, we’re here for you.
- We use advanced diagnostics to monitor gum and bone health.
- We educate patients on the lifestyle factors that influence long-term outcomes.
- We customise care plans that support your unique life stage and oral health status.
In summary
The ADA-highlighted study sends a clear message: healthy behaviors and socioeconomic factors significantly impact tooth loss risk in older adults. ADA News The good news? You have control. By adopting good habits, staying on top of dental visits, and working with a practice like ours, you can give yourself the best chance of retaining a strong, natural smile for years to come.