Smart Smiles After 60: Top Strategies for Seniors to Maintain Strong Gum Health

By Dr. Teresa Lowery – Gentle, Expert Dental Care for Denver’s Older Adults

At My Cherry Creek Dentist, we believe aging should come with wisdom, grace, and a confident, healthy smile. Gum health is a critical piece of that picture. In fact, maintaining strong gums after 60 can directly impact not only your ability to chew and speak—but also your heart health, immune system, and overall quality of life.

Let’s explore a few smart, science-backed strategies that can help keep your gums healthy for years to come.

Why Gum Health Becomes More Critical With Age

Studies show nearly 65% of adults over 65 experience some form of gum disease. Why? Age brings a perfect storm: dry mouth from medications, reduced dexterity for brushing and flossing, immune changes, and sometimes decades of dental wear and tear.

That’s why Dr. Teresa Lowery and our Cherry Creek team place such a strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention. We help our senior patients protect their smiles with compassionate care and practical strategies that work.1. Schedule Dental Visits Every 3 Months (Yes, More Often!)

Routine cleanings every 6 months may be enough when you’re younger—but for seniors, more frequent checkups can prevent big problems. At My Cherry Creek Dentist, we recommend a visit every 3 months if you wear dentures, have dry mouth, or a history of gum disease.

At each visit, we check for:

• Early signs of gum infection—even if you don’t have symptoms yet

• Gum pocket depth and signs of inflammation

• Bone loss around teeth

• Oral cancer risks, which increase with age

💡 Ask about Gum Infection Therapy and Perio Protect® if your gums bleed easily, feel tender, or you’re dealing with chronic bad breath. It’s a gentle, targeted treatment that can restore health and comfort.

2. Eat for Your Gums, Not Just Your Teeth

Your diet plays a surprisingly big role in gum health. Nutrient-rich foods support healing, reduce inflammation, and help prevent the breakdown of the tissue that supports your teeth.

Key Nutrients for Healthy Gums:

• Vitamin C – For gum tissue repair. Find it in bell peppers, citrus, and broccoli.

• CoQ10 – This antioxidant promotes healing; it’s found in spinach, fatty fish, and supplements.

• Calcium & Vitamin D – Vital for bone support; get yours from leafy greens, dairy, and sunshine.

• Green Tea – Full of polyphenols that combat bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Struggling to chew healthy foods due to missing teeth or dentures that slip? Ask us about dental implants or implant-supported dentures—they improve comfort, function, and gum health.

3. Step Up Your Daily Routine

Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight, but it can sneak up fast if home care slips. The good news? Consistent habits can help prevent or even reverse early gum problems (gingivitis).

Here’s what we recommend for our Denver patients:

• Brush gently twice a day with a soft or electric toothbrush

• Use a fluoride toothpaste with antibacterial properties

• Floss daily (or try water flossers or interdental brushes if flossing is difficult)

• Use a soothing antibacterial mouthwash (alcohol-free!)

• Drink water throughout the day to support saliva flow

4. Treat Dry Mouth Before It Damages Your Gums

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is common in older adults and often caused by medications for blood pressure, anxiety, or allergies. Without enough saliva, bacteria multiply, and that’s bad news for your gums and teeth.

Watch for:

• Sticky feeling in the mouth

• Trouble swallowing or speaking

• Mouth sores, sore tongue, or frequent cavities

What Helps:

• Sip water often

• Chew sugar-free gum or xylitol mints

• Try saliva substitutes or moisturizing mouth sprays

• Avoid alcohol-based mouth rinses

If dry mouth is affecting you, schedule a visit with Dr. Lowery—we’ll help you manage symptoms and protect your oral health long-term.

Your Smile Deserves Support—At Every Age

Aging doesn’t mean you have to settle for declining dental health. With regular visits, thoughtful nutrition, and smart daily care, you can enjoy a confident, healthy smile for life.

📞 Call us today at (303) 753-0922 or visit MyCherryCreekDentist.com to book your next visit.
We’re here to help you smile brighter—no matter your age.