When you are younger, your teeth seem invincible. You might think that with regular cleanings and basic dental care, that they will always be shiny, white, and healthy. However, as you age, it has an impact on your teeth. By 2020, according to the U.S. Census, there are expected to be 98 million individuals age 65 or older. If you are part of that group or know someone who is, then you might be wondering what potential issues you might be facing.
Here are six ways that your age impacts the health of your teeth and how you can work to prevent them.
Untreated Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
The fact is that as we age, there are financial realities that can impact our ability to keep up our oral care. Older Americans with poor oral health tend to be economically disadvantaged, and being disabled, homebound, or institutionalized also increases this risk. One of the results of poor oral health is untreated tooth decay, which can result in cavities.
To address this issue, it is important to look for options that will allow for regular cleanings and dental care. Doing so will help you to find tooth decay or gum disease and treat it before that progresses even further.
Cognitive Impairments Can Impact Oral Health Care
There may be potential physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments associated with aging, which can result in poor oral care at home. If you have a family member who is aging and struggling with these issues, then you want to make sure that their teeth are being cared for daily. Doing so can help to avoid tooth decay and other issues.
Increased Prescriptions Can Impact Teeth
As you have to increase the number of medications that you take, your teeth may be weakened as a result of the combination. You might be using several medications that may also have adverse reactions on your teeth over time. Working with your dentist, you can address those potential issues by discussing the medications that you are on and the dental care options available to make part of your routine.
Dry Mouth
As you age, medicine and certain health conditions can cause dry mouth. Saliva is a critical part of the process that protects your teeth and overall oral health. When you don’t have enough saliva, you are at greater risk of having problems tasting, chewing, and swallowing. There is also an increased risk of mouth sores, gum disease, tooth decay, and yeast infections. Working with your dentist, you can address dry mouth through various rinses and other methods.
Receding Gum Problems
As you age, your gum tissue is more likely to pull away from your teeth, exposing the base and root. That becomes a place where bacteria can build up and cause problems. To reduce your gum problems, floss and brush every day. You also should quit smoking and make sure that you have regular dental visits.
Gingivitis is an early type of gum disease that can end up resulting in a loss of teeth. Plaque and tarter can build up, thus irritating the gums and inflaming them. If you have already suffered damage or tooth loss, cosmetic dentistry could be an option to give you back a healthy smile. That could include using dental implants versus dentures, which can rub and cause other gum issues.
Oral Cancer
For those individuals who smoked in the past, there is an increased risk of oral cancer. To address that as you age, you should have regular checkups with your dentist and make sure you create a preventative treatment plan that will catch any potential issues early.
With all these potential issues, you might be wondering what you can do to avoid some of these issues. First, find a local dentist who offers regular cleaning services. If you are dealing with financial concerns, then look for a dentist who offers discounts for paying in advance or provides an in-office insurance option.
At home, make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day. If you notice any issues with your teeth or gums, don’t wait to contact your dentist. Additionally, if you are suffering from dry mouth, work with both your doctor and dentist to find a solution. That might mean changing medications or using a rinse.
In the end, the best way to maintain your oral health as you age is to keep a regular oral care routine in place, one that includes daily routines and annual dental visits. Contact us today to schedule your dental visit, so we can help you to shape a preventative treatment plan for your oral health.
Gernot Winkler, DDS, is dedicated to serving clients with general and family, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Located in Fallbrook, Dr. Winkler sees patients throughout San Diego County including neighboring cities such as Fallbrook, Bonsall, Rainbow, and Temecula.