As people age, their teeth may show signs of wear and tear. This can lead to several unique dental problems that seniors may face. Check out this guide that highlights the specific dental needs of seniors.
Seniors have a higher risk for tooth decay.
Tooth decay is a result of bacteria that forms plaque, which is a sticky film that contains more bacteria and other debris. The bacteria in plaque convert the sugar in your mouth into acids. These acids can eat away the enamel on your teeth, causing tooth decay. If tooth decay is left untreated, it can lead to cavities and other dental problems. Several ways to prevent tooth decay include brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. You can also reduce your risk of tooth decay by avoiding sugary snacks and drinks and brushing your teeth after eating them.
Gum disease is also caused by plaque buildup, specifically plaque around the gums. Similar to tooth decay, the bacteria in the plaque can cause inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. It is a progressive disease that can start with mild irritation and inflammation of the gums but can eventually lead to bleeding and sore teeth. Gum disease can be treated and controlled, but it is essential to seek treatment early.
If you know seniors showing signs of tooth decay, consider making sure they have a dental plan and a dentist regularly checking their teeth. The best dental plans for seniors offer coverage for a wide range of services, including preventive care, restorative treatments, and dental implants. Most plans will also cover dentures and other oral appliances. However, it’s important to read the fine print before signing up, as not all plans cover the same services or procedures.
Seniors deal with dry mouth issues more often.
The elderly are at an increased risk for dry mouth problems due to various factors, including natural changes in the mouth and teeth as we age, medications that can affect the mouth, and decreased saliva production. Dry mouth is often caused by medications or health conditions such as diabetes or Alzheimer’s. This issue can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease because it reduces the amount of saliva available to clean teeth and neutralize acids. The acids in saliva can dissolve the enamel on teeth over time, leading to root decay. Common symptoms of dry mouth include bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. Seniors should drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum or candies to help stimulate saliva production.
A dry mouth also makes seniors susceptible to cavities. Enamel is the hard, white outer layer that protects our teeth from decay. When our enamel thins, it becomes more difficult to fight off cavity-causing bacteria. This is why it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to help protect our teeth from decay. Additionally, it is important to see our dentist for regular checkups and cleanings so that we can catch any early signs of decay and treat them before they become a problem.
Seniors often require dentures and bridges.
Seniors who don’t regularly receive dental care may experience tooth loss, which is much harder to fix than the other issues mentioned above. There are a few different ways to deal with a missing tooth. One option is to replace the tooth with a dental implant. This implant is surgically implanted in the jawbone to provide a stable base for dental restoration. Dental implants can replace a single tooth or an entire set of teeth. Another option for tooth replacement is a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a restoration anchored to two adjacent teeth and consists of a replacement tooth or teeth in the middle. Dental bridges are a good option for people who are missing several teeth. More commonly, seniors opt for dentures, which are more cost-effective than singular implants.
By understanding the specific oral health concerns that seniors face, dental professionals and family members can help seniors maintain their smiles and avoid costly and potentially painful dental problems down the road.
