Senior Dental Healthcare

January 13, 2023

Aging changes in teeth and gums are a natural part of the aging process. As we age, our bodies go through many changes, including those that affect our teeth and gums. With Senior Dental Healthcare our teeth may become more yellow or stained due to years of wear and tear, while our gums may recede or become more sensitive. Certain health conditions that are more common in older adults, such as diabetes and periodontal disease, can also affect oral health. Additionally, taking certain medications can cause dry mouth which can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Common oral health issues among seniors that the CDC.gov wants us to be aware of:

  • Untreated tooth decay. Nearly all adults (96%) aged 65 years or older have had a cavity; 1 in 5 have untreated tooth decay.
  • Gum disease. A high percentage of older adults have gum disease. About 2 in 3 (68%) adults aged 65 years or older have gum disease.
  • Tooth loss. Nearly 1 in 5 adults aged 65 or older have lost all of their teeth. Complete tooth loss is twice as prevalent among adults aged 75 and older (26%) compared with adults aged 65-74 (13%). Having missing teeth or wearing dentures can affect nutrition because people without teeth or with dentures often prefer soft, easily chewed foods instead of foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Oral cancer. Cancers of the mouth (oral and pharyngeal cancers) are primarily diagnosed in older adults; the median age at diagnosis is 62 years.
  • Chronic disease. People with chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be more likely to develop gum (periodontal) disease, but they are less likely to get dental care than adults without these chronic conditions. Also, most older Americans take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs; many of these medications can cause dry mouth. Reduced saliva flow increases the risk of cavities.

Tips for Maintaining and Improving senior’s oral health

  • Make sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles, and brush your teeth twice daily. An electric toothbrush may also be beneficial.
  • Make sure to floss or use another flossing tool on your teeth daily.
  • Remember to clean full or partial dentures daily if you have them. Remove your dentures from your mouth for a minimum of four hours daily. The optimal time to take them out is in the evening.
  • Drink tap water. Drinking fluoridated water can help protect your teeth from decay, regardless of age.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking not only increases your chances of developing cancer, but it also leads to dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and loss. Learn more about how smoking can affect your teeth here.
  • Make an appointment with your dentist. Have your teeth been examined frequently by a dentist for a comprehensive dental exam? It is important to keep this up with your Senior Dental Healthcare.

If you practice good oral hygiene, make smart dietary decisions, and get routine dental care, your teeth can last a lifetime—whether they are your natural teeth, implants, or dentures.

Caregiving for an elderly loved one

If you know someone who needs help keeping their mouth healthy, like a parent, spouse, or friend, they may need extra assistance. What can you do to aid? There are two important things:

  • Remind them to brush and floss their teeth daily, in order to keep their mouth clean.
  • Regular Dental Checkups.  Smiles of Round lake can assist you with your dental needs.  They can inform you about the health of your mouth and teeth after an exam.

Following the steps can stop issues from occurring, however, what may have been easy tasks before may become more complicated. If your loved one is having difficulty with brushing and flossing, talk to a dentist or hygienist who can provide helpful tips or a different approach. For those who wear dentures, pay close attention to their eating habits. Denture problems may be the underlying cause if someone is struggling with their eating habits or not eating as much as normal.

It is easy to overlook Senior Dental Healthcare when providing care for someone confined to bed, who may have a variety of health issues. Even so, brushing your teeth is still critical because bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled and lead to pneumonia.

Smiles of Round Lake is always available to schedule an appointment or to answer any dental-related questions. Please give our friendly staff a call at 847-546-1542 or email us at [email protected].