No matter how old we are, there is one thing we all have in common…well, specifically, 32 things: our teeth.
Maintaining oral health is crucial at every stage of life. As you navigate through your 20s, 30s, and 40s, your dental needs and priorities may shift. This oral health roadmap will guide you through each decade, ensuring your smile remains bright and healthy.
In your 20s
Freedom from parental control might feel liberating at first, but 20-year-olds new to adult life will soon find out that maintaining a clean bill of dental health may be more financially difficult on their own.
For one, many young adults in this age group do not have dental coverage for a variety of reasons:
- Children can no longer be claimed as dependents on their parent’s insurance policies at age 26. Not surprisingly, 26-27 year-olds made up the highest percentage of uninsured Americans in the 2020 census.
- As many as 70 million Americans do not have dental coverage, with an estimated 6 million having lost it during the pandemic. That is a lot of families’ oral health affected by a lack of traditional dental insurance.
- Many employers do not offer dental benefits, have cut them as a cost-saving measure or are too expensive for employees to afford.
As a 20-something, it may be easy to think, I am young and healthy. Dental care is something I can worry about when I am older. But here’s the truth: you should never push off preventative care. As Americans, we tend to wait until something is wrong before we see a health professional. But two cleanings a year with a dentist can address many oral health concerns before they even happen.
So don’t wait until your next decade to start thinking about your oral health. If you are 26 and just came off your parent’s insurance, we’ve got your back. Or if your job doesn’t offer dental insurance, here are some affordable options to explore.
In your 30s
Reaching your 30s can feel like a whirlwind, with career advancements and family responsibilities increasing. However, it's essential not to overlook your dental health. If you neglected dental care in your 20s, it could come back to haunt you now. If it’s been some time since your last visit, you may feel anxious about seeing the dentist. But don’t worry—we're here to help! Let’s explore a few important areas to concentrate on to help you regain control of your dental health.
Key Focus Areas:
- Addressing Grinding and Clenching: Stress can lead to teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. Consider using a night guard to protect your teeth.
- Gum Health: Pay attention to gum health, as periodontal disease becomes more prevalent. Gums that bleed easily may indicate the need for improved oral hygiene or a dentist’s intervention.
- Monitoring for Wear and Tear: As teeth age, they may show signs of wear. Regular check-ups can help manage these issues before they become severe.
- Family Dental Care: If you have children, instilling good dental habits early is crucial for their oral health.
In your 40s
You’re in your 40s — you may think you’ve seen it all, right? Well, not exactly.
All those years of wisdom may have also brought some stress into your life. And guess what? In addition to your mental health, stress can also have a significant role in your oral health, including tooth grinding, canker sores and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). But we don’t have to live with our stress: try some of these stress reduction techniques to ease some of the oral health concerns it can cause.
Key Focus Areas:
- Managing Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity can be a common issue. Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoid overly hot or cold foods.
- Watch for Signs of Oral Cancer: Regular dental visits are essential for early detection of any unusual changes in your mouth. Stay vigilant about sores that do not heal or unusual lumps.
- Preventing Bone Loss: Bone density can decrease with age. Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and discuss options with your dentist if you have concerns.
- Cosmetic Dentistry Options: If you're considering cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers, consult with your dentist to explore your options.
Oral health at any age
You may have noticed a theme throughout this roadmap: the importance of daily oral hygiene and preventative care. And while cost can be an obstacle for many Americans seeking dental care, it doesn’t have to be a barrier. Know your options and take steps now to keep your mouth healthy, no matter your age.
The bottom line: Regardless of your age or current dental health, preventative care should never be put off. Stay on top of your dental hygiene and you will have a healthy smile for years to come.
Want more tips on how improve your oral health and save on dental care? Contact us today to learn how our dental savings card can help you save 20% to 50% off at your next dental visit.