Aging brings many changes to our bodies, including in our oral health. Our teeth and gums can face new challenges as we advance in age that require adjustments in dental care.
However, with increased awareness and preventive measures maintaining a vibrant smile is certainly possible even in our senior years. As we get older changes in our saliva, gum tissues, bone structure, and other aspects of our mouth occur naturally.
Decades of use also take a toll on prior dental work. Knowing some of the most common senior dental health issues allows you to partner with your dentist to minimize their impact.
Being proactive with at-home care, regular professional cleanings, and speaking up about any concerns or changes you notice can go a long way. Even if you develop dry mouth, gum recession, or other mature dental conditions addressing them early provides the best odds of keeping your teeth healthy and functional for life.
The key is staying informed about potential dental changes with age and taking the right steps to limit their effects. With a little extra attention and care your smile can remain beautiful and bright no matter how old you are.
See your dentist promptly if you notice any sores, pain, changes in your bite, or other issues. With diligent daily care and regular dental visits to a dentist near me, your smile can stay healthy and beautiful for life.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth becomes more common as we get older. Certain medications can reduce saliva flow and saliva glands may work less effectively. Saliva helps neutralize acids that cause cavities, so less saliva means a higher decay risk.
Tips for dealing with dry mouth:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless candies to stimulate saliva flow.
- Use an oral moisturizer or saliva substitute.
- Have your doctor review medications to see if any are causing dry mouth.
Gum Recession and Root Exposure
Gums naturally recede and expose more of your teeth roots as you age. Roots do not have protective enamel like the crown portion of your teeth. This makes them more prone to cavities and sensitivity.
To prevent root problems:
- Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and focus on the gumline.
- Floss daily.
- See your dentist regularly to monitor recession. Treatment may be needed.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if roots become tender.
Dental Work Complications
Over time, old fillings, crowns, and other dental work can weaken and deteriorate. Cracks may form in worn teeth due to a lifetime of use.
Your dentist should evaluate and replace any defective dental work. For cracked teeth, treatments like crowns and dental bonding can protect damaged areas.
Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer risk rises with age. Tell your dentist immediately about any sore spots, lumps, or other abnormalities you notice in your mouth. Catching issues early is critical.
Regular dental exams allow early detection and prompt treatment if any suspicious areas are found.
Difficulties with Dentures
Many seniors use full or partial dentures. With age, dentures may start to become uncomfortable or ill-fitting due to natural changes in the gums and bones that support dentures.
Your dentist can reline or rebase loosening dentures for a better fit. Implant-supported dentures that attach to dental implants may be an option if regular dentures are problematic.
Options for Tooth Replacement
If you lose teeth as you get older talk with your dentist about replacement options so you can continue eating, speaking, and smiling confidently. Traditional bridges and partial dentures are common tooth replacement choices.
Dental implants are growing in popularity - they act as artificial tooth roots and provide strong, permanent support for replacement teeth.
Focusing on Prevention
The best way to maintain oral health into your senior years is prevention:
- Brush twice daily and floss once a day.
- Have professional cleanings every 6 months.
- Get oral cancer screenings.
- Use products tailored to dry mouth if needed.
- Avoid tobacco and limit sugary, acidic, and starchy foods.
Whenever you look for a top-rated dental clinic in your neighborhood, do an online search for a dental clinic near me to find highly reviewed practices located close by. Check their qualifications, services, and patient feedback. After identifying one that looks promising, schedule your appointment.
No comments yet