The German Association of Dentists has recommended that elderly people drink fluids to maintain their dental health, explaining that it stimulates saliva production, which supports the self-cleaning of teeth. The association added that saliva combats bacteria, neutralizes the effects of harmful acids on teeth, and helps replenish minerals lost from tooth enamel. It highlighted the importance of consuming unsweetened, low-calorie beverages, suggesting that they be placed in visible and accessible locations to remind individuals to drink them.
Increasing fluid intake throughout the day can be achieved by drinking a glass of water before each meal and consuming foods with high water content, such as cucumbers. Additionally, chewing sugar-free gum further stimulates saliva secretion. It is also important to eat solid foods, such as apples, as chewing these contributes to the health of teeth and gums. On the other hand, brushing teeth with toothpaste twice a day is essential. Ideally, dental floss should be used to clean the gaps between teeth once a day.
