Thinking about retiring soon? Retirement can be a wonderful time. You will have more freedom to pursue interests you have, but you may lose dental insurance benefits and have a reduced cash flow when you stop working.

One of the best ways to plan for this is to get your oral heath in top shape prior to pulling the plug on your working years. One of the biggest concerns is periodontal disease. Gum disease tends to progress as we get older. Gum disease is associated with increased risk for heart attack, stroke and diabetes. These are all diseases of aging and inflammation that can cut short a healthy retirement.

The first step to get your mouth healthy is to make sure there is no bleeding when you clean your teeth through proper periodontal assessment. Bleeding gums could be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease treatment has become way more patient friendly. With a process known as LANAP, or laser assisted new attachment procedure, the bacteria that cause gum disease is targeted through minimally invasive lasers. Once gum disease is under control, good daily hygiene and regular cleaning or periodontal maintenance can keep it in check.

The second step is getting rid of any decay or prior fillings that are at risk of failing in the next few years. While it may not hurt now, it will never be easier or less expensive than taking care of problem areas before they break or become infected.

The third and final step is to consider replacing any missing teeth with dental implants prior to retiring. You will be young and healthy enough to proceed with treatment, and financial resources will be in better shape while you are still have a paycheck coming in.

Got Questions? Visit our website at www.connecticutperiodontist.com or call (203) 712-0917 to schedule your appointment now.

This post was written by our periodontist, Dr. Richard Amato himself.