In
this day and age, many seniors can admit to proudly having every tooth they
were born with. As to how so many can accomplish this, it’s often due to many
years of strong oral hygiene as well as routine visits to the dentist. Even
with strict care, however, there are many additional challenges that come with
aging, and it’s important that senior dental patients make sure to step up
their game to preserve their natural teeth as long as possible. Certain facets
of aging can increase one’s risk of developing dental problems, but knowing these
risks ahead of time and taking action could potentially help you prevent these troublesome
issues.
Tooth
Decay
One of
the most common dental concerns among seniors is dry mouth (or decreased saliva
production), which can be the result of radiation treatments or an underlying
disease as well as be a side effect of medication. Saliva works by neutralizing
bacterial toxins within the mouth, and losing saliva can allow these germs to grow
on the teeth or any root surfaces that have been exposed by gum recession.
While
regular brushing and limiting sugar intake are vital, your dentist might also
recommend prescription-level fluoride toothpaste for extra protection from
cavities. You should also moisturize your mouth by drinking enough water, sucking
on lozenges, chewing sugar-free gum, or even clearing your nasal passages to
avoid your mouth doing most of your breathing.
Gum
Disease
Per
the Academy of General Dentistry, roughly one quarter of adults between 65 and
74 years of age have developed severe periodontal or gum disease. Because gum
disease causes damage to the tissue and bone surrounding the teeth, an
untreated case could lead to tooth loss. As well, smoking, diabetes, and
osteoporosis can further an existing case of gum disease. It is bacteria within
the mouth that causes gum disease, so a consistent oral healthcare routine as
well as regular dental cleanings should help prevent the disease’s development.
Worn
Dental Work
As you
get older, so does your old dental work—fillings installed many years ago may
start breaking down or leaking, leading to decay. If you notice sensitivity or
pain developing around past dental work, see your dental professional. Extensive
treatment, such as crowns and root canals, can be avoided if broken or leaky fillings
are taken care of as soon as possible.
Overcoming
Hurdles to Strong Oral Hygiene
For
older dental patients, when arthritis or a similar physical limitation causes
brushing teeth and flossing to be much harder, your dental professional can
suggest products and methods for simplifying home dental care while still
effectively cleaning teeth. Special bristle patterns, electric toothbrushes, interdental
cleaners, and floss holders are just a few changes that could make a huge
difference in your daily oral healthcare routine. Regarding senior patients
staying in hospitals or nursing homes, make sure to request special dental
assistance, if necessary, for the former and inquire about the quality of the oral
healthcare provided by the facility for the latter.
Worried about the high cost of dental care? Check out our New Hampshire discount dental plan for seniors
that can save as much as 20 percent off your dental bill. For more information, click here.
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