Oral health is important for people of all ages, but it becomes even more crucial as we age. As we get older, our bodies undergo several changes, and our oral health needs change as well. Our South Surrey family dentists at My Dentist at Morgan Creek would like to explore the common oral health issues that affect seniors and provide tips on how to maintain good oral health as you age.
Why We Become More Susceptible to Oral Health Issues With Age
There are several reasons why we may become more susceptible to oral health issues as we age. One of the main reasons is that our teeth and gums undergo wear and tear over time. As we age, our teeth can become weakened and more susceptible to decay, cracking, and chipping. Additionally, our gums may begin to recede, exposing the roots of our teeth and making them more vulnerable to decay and infection.
Another factor that can contribute to oral health issues as we age is changes in our saliva production. Saliva plays an important role in protecting our teeth and gums from bacteria and other harmful substances. However, as we age, our bodies may produce less saliva, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. According to research,
“Aging affects the salivary glands and alters quantity (flow rate) and quality (e.g., ion and protein composition, rheology, tribology) of saliva. Thus, older adults may suffer from dry mouth, taste aberration, and poor oral hygiene, greatly affecting their quality of life.”
Aging-related changes in quantity and quality of saliva: Where do we stand in our understanding?, Feng Xu, Laura Laguna, Anwesha Sarkar (2018 Aug 26)
Finally, certain medical conditions and medications can also contribute to oral health issues. For example, some medications can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections in the mouth.
Overall, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and visit our dentist regularly as we age in order to prevent and treat oral health issues.
Common Oral Health Issues in Seniors
Senior citizens often experience a variety of oral health issues that can affect their overall health and quality of life. These issues can range from dry mouth and gum disease to tooth decay and even oral cancer. It’s important for seniors to be aware of these common oral health issues and take steps to prevent and treat them, as good oral health can have a positive impact on their overall well-being. In this section, we will explore some of the most common oral health issues facing senior citizens and discuss ways to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent these problems.
Gum Disease / Periodontal Disease
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the risk of gum disease increases with age. In fact, it is estimated that just over 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease. It is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth and gums, which can cause inflammation and damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, bad breath, bleeding gums, bone loss, loose teeth and even tooth loss.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a common problem in seniors, especially those who have dry mouth due to medication or other health issues. Dry mouth can be caused by medications, radiation therapy, and certain medical conditions, and it can increase the risk of tooth decay. Saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and wash away food particles and bacteria, so a dry mouth can lead to more plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Oral Cancer
According to Cancer.Net, the risk of oral cancer increases with age, and it is important to get regular oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat, and it can be life-threatening if not detected early. Symptoms of oral cancer include mouth sores, lumps or thickening of the skin or tissues in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing or speaking.
How to Maintaining Good Oral Health as You Age
Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral health as you age:
Brush and Floss Twice a Day
Brush your teeth at least a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Make sure to brush for a minimum of two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions.
You should also floss before brushing to help remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth to prevent gum disease. Use a piece of floss about 18 inches long, and wrap it around your fingers, sliding it between your teeth and along the gumline. Be gentle and avoid snapping the floss, which can damage your gums.
Use a Mouthwash
A mouthwash can help kill bacteria that cause gum disease and freshen your breath. Look for an alcohol-free mouthwash that contains fluoride and antimicrobial agents. Use it 30 minutes after brushing and flossing, and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking enough water is important for your overall health, including your oral health. Drinking water can help keep your mouth hydrated and wash away food particles and bacteria. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and choose water over sugary drinks, which can increase your risk of tooth decay.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth loss. If you smoke, talk to your doctor or dentist about ways to quit, such as nicotine replacement therapy or support groups.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health as you age. Your dentist can detect and treat dental issues early before they become more serious. Here are some things to keep in mind about the importance of visiting your dentist at least twice a year:
- If you wear dentures, make sure they fit properly and get them checked regularly. Ill-fitting dentures can cause gum irritation and sores, and they can also affect your ability to eat and speak.
- If you have dry mouth, you can talk to your dentist about ways to manage it. Your dentist can recommend products to help stimulate saliva flow or suggest lifestyle changes to reduce dry mouth, such as avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
- If you have any oral health issues, such as bleeding gums or tooth sensitivity, your dentist can recommend treatments to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further damage.
Oral Health and Overall Health
As we discussed in a previous post last May, your oral health is connected to overall health, and good oral health can help prevent other health problems. Here are some ways oral health is linked to overall health:
- Oral bacteria can cause infections in other parts of the body. Poor oral hygiene can lead to bacteria buildup in the mouth, which can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in other parts of the body, such as the heart, lungs, and brain. Studies have linked gum disease to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Maintaining good oral health can help reduce your risk of these and other health problems.
- Some medications can affect your oral health and result in conditions such as dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Other medications can cause changes in the mouth, such as inflamed or bleeding gums, mouth sores, or a metallic taste. It is important to let your dentist know about all the medications you are taking so they can help you manage any oral health issues that may arise.
- Poor oral health can also affect your quality of life. Oral health problems can cause pain, difficulty eating and speaking, and social embarrassment which can affect your self-esteem. By maintaining good oral health, you can help avoid these problems and enjoy a healthier, happier life.
Book a Consultation with a Trusted South Surrey Dentist
Maintaining good oral health is important for people of all ages, but it becomes even more crucial as we age. By keeping in mind the things we discussed in this post and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help maintain your oral health and prevent minor oral issues from becoming more serious. Remember, good oral health is an important part of your overall health.
Take care of your oral health and schedule a dental checkup at My Dentist at Morgan Creek in South Surrey. Don’t let poor oral health affect your quality of life. Our dentists are genuinely concerned about every patient’s dental health and well-being. This makes them some of the favourite dentists for many in South Surrey and White Rock, BC. Call us at 604-542-0123 or contact us online to book your appointment today! Your smile and overall health will thank you!
