If you're a baby boomer or older, you're probably concerned with staying healthy and looking good as you age. Besides exercising, eating right and having regular checkups, you can enhance your overall well being by taking good care of your smile. Teeth are meant to last a lifetime. There is no reason why older adults can't give attractive smiles and keep their gums and teeth healthy for the rest of their lives.

Older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer because of scientific developments and the preventative emphasis in dentistry. This improvement was seen in the results of a survey released by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. They showed that among persons aged 55 to 64, the rate of toothlessness dropped 60 percent since 1960.

Thorough daily brushing using fluoridated toothpaste and flossing of your natural teeth are essential to keep them in good condition. Tooth decay is not just a child's problem. Adults of all ages can have cavities too. The causes of tooth decay are the same for everyone, regardless of age. Decay results when the bacteria in dental plaque feed on the carbohydrates (sugar and starch) in our diets to produce acids that can cause cavities.

Adults are more likely to have decay around older fillings, and because many adults grew up without the benefits of fluoride, they may have many more fillings. Decay of the tooth root is also common among older adults. Root caries (decay) occur when the gums recede, exposing the softer root surface. The root surface can decay more easily than the tooth enamel that covers the crown portion of the tooth.

A topically applied fluoride provides local protection on the tooth surface. Remineralization or repair of the tooth enamel is very important. Fluoride ions strengthen the enamel so that it is more resistant to decay. Fluoride ions can also repair or remineralize early dental decay caused by acids. Fluoridated water as well as various fluoride products such as toothpaste provides fluoride ions necessary for repair or remineralization.

Tooth decay is also promoted by dry mouth. This condition, call xerostomia, occurs when the supply of saliva is greatly reduced. It can be caused by many types of medications (such as antihistamines, anti-hypertensives, and anti-depressants) or radiation therapy to the head or neck. Saliva is needed to lubricate the mouth, wash foods away and neutralize the acids produced by plaque. If allowed to continue, dry mouth can lead to rampant tooth decay. An artificial saliva and fluoride may be recommended by your dentist to help prevent decay.

Inform your dentist of any changes in your health or medications. This information will help your dentist select the safest and effective method of treatment for you.