Oral health is directly related to the overall health of individuals but can be particularly impactful in older adults. Practicing good oral hygiene and getting routine oral care helps reduce the risk of infections and their complications. It can also help prevent problems like tooth decay, toothaches, and loss of teeth. Healthy teeth and gums also make it easier for seniors to eat and enjoy their food.
As we get older, poor oral health increases. Many older adults have periodontal, or gum disease, which is caused by the bacteria in plaque that irritates the gums and makes them red, swollen, and more likely to bleed. Left untreated, pockets may form in the gums where food particles and plaque can build up. Advanced periodontal disease can eventually lead to the breakdown of gums, bones, and ligaments that support the teeth, which will lead to tooth loss. Systemic diseases such as diabetes increase the risk and progression of periodontal disease, and diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can make taking care of oral health more difficult. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8395714/) With regular dental visits, gum disease can be treated or prevented entirely, and routine wellness checks with your physician can help keep chronic conditions under control.
A lifetime of use can wear away the outer layer of enamel on the teeth, as well as flatten the edges used to bite. Exposure to acidic foods like citrus or carbonated beverages will dissolve the tooth’s protective enamel, which can lead to more serious dental problems. The nerves in the tooth’s core lose sensitivity as we age, so dental problems could become very advanced before the pain becomes noticeable.
Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging and can contribute to cavities in older adults. Dry mouth is a common side-effect for many medications, which is why it’s important to speak with your dentist about any medications you may be taking. They can help relieve the symptoms of dry mouth. Some common recommendations may be drinking more water, using sugar-free gym or lozenges to stimulate saliva production, avoiding food and beverages that can irritate dry mouth like alcohol, carbonated drinks, acidic fruit juices, and coffee, and over the counter moisturizers like a spray or mouth wash.
As with many cancers, the risk of developing mouth, throat and tongue cancer increases with age, as well as with tobacco use. The initial signs of oral cancer can be subtle and easily missed. If you notice a red or white patch that lasts longer than 2 weeks, especially on the lip tongue or bottom of mouth, you should consult with an oral specialist.
There’s a growing amount of evidence showing, especially with conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6755758/) This is known as the oral systemic connection.
It can be difficult to manage dental health as you get older. Our team is experienced in working with older adults to help maintain and protect their oral health. Please give us a call at 877-337-0922 or email us at cassandra@infinitycaremanagers.com to find out how we can help.
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