We are often presented with numerous recommendations regarding a balanced diet suited to different stages of life, yet it is rarely discussed how to adjust one’s Diet to support proper Oral Hygiene at various points throughout life.
0–5 YEARS – EARLY CHILDHOOD
For infants, a gauze pad is essential. Even in very young babies, the bacteria responsible for plaque formation develop and proliferate due to residues of milk or baby food. After each feeding, it is advisable to gently wipe the baby’s gums with a gauze pad dampened with water.
In early infancy (0–2 years), it is recommended to avoid juices or sugary drinks from a bottle, particularly during the night, and to introduce children to toothbrushing from the very beginning.
In the later toddler years (2–5 years), it is important not to overindulge children with sweets, snacks, and sugary beverages, in order to prevent the premature loss of milk teeth — which can lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth as they grow.
6–18 YEARS – ADOLESCENCE
As children grow and become more independent in their eating habits, it is important to guide them towards limiting between-meal snacks and maintaining proper oral hygiene — particularly for those wearing orthodontic appliances. Especially during the teenage years, it is advisable to limit the consumption of carbonated drinks, which are a leading cause of dental erosion and cavities.
18–65 YEARS – ADULTHOOD
In adulthood, people tend to be considerably more aware of the principles of good oral hygiene, yet hectic lifestyles and eating away from home often take over. Avoiding frequent snacking, highly acidic foods, and brushing regularly are undoubtedly among the key principles of a sound oral diet — essential for preventing many of the most common dental conditions and premature ageing of the teeth.
OVER 65 YEARS – OLDER ADULTHOOD
At this stage, the oral cavity reflects the cumulative effects of all the conditions developed throughout one’s lifetime. Older individuals may have more sensitive gums, have lost some teeth, and experience reduced salivation — making it all the more important to adapt one’s oral diet to their specific condition and to undergo more frequent dental check-ups.
Cariex® dental spray, which controls oral pH, is suitable for every age: in early childhood to counteract oral thrush and facilitate oral hygiene in young ones; in adolescence for between-meal snacks and those wearing orthodontic appliances; in adulthood to prevent cavities and erosion and maintain a youthful smile; and in older adults to relieve the symptoms of xerostomia and gum-related issues. Cariex® is always particularly recommended when brushing is not possible and before bedtime.
