How Aging Can Impact Oral Health
As we age, our oral health needs change. The great news is that today’s seniors are more active and staying healthy longer! However, mature patients can also face some serious oral health conditions. And because the dental health trends of older Americans may not seem obvious, the experts at Smileboston Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry have listed a few ways the aging process can impact your oral health care.
Connection Between Aging & Oral Health
Bone Loss
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, nearly 54 million Americans over the age of 50 are affected by osteoporosis. More common among women, this chronic condition causes bones to gradually deteriorate and become more brittle over time. This process may also cause teeth to grow weak, increasing the risk of loss and, eventually, leading to a need for tooth repair.
Dry Mouth
As people age, the ability to produce saliva decreases. This condition can be exacerbated if you are taking medications that cause dry mouth as a side effect. In addition to being uncomfortable, a lack of saliva can make it difficult to rinse away bacteria and food particles throughout the day. Without this protection, the risk of cavities and oral infections greatly increases.
Reduced Sensitivity
Shrinking blood vessels are a common problem among seniors. This reduces the blood flow to nerves and making it more difficult for people to detect certain sensations—including pain. This can make it more difficult for individuals to tell if they’re experiencing oral health problems that require immediate attention.
Gum Disease
Immune systems tend to lose their strength later in life, which, in turn, can make it hard for the body to fight off infections, such as gum disease. Affecting more than 17% of adults who are 65 or older, gum disease is a serious problem that can cause gum recession and tooth loss, and it can increase other health risks, such as heart disease and diabetes.
While aging may increase the risk of certain oral health problems, employing a good oral health care regimen, including regular hygiene visits and staying hydrated can help to keep issues at bay. Smileboston Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry offers comprehensive dental care ranging from general and laser dentistry to dental implants, full smile makeovers and the Pinhole Surgical Technique to treat gum recession at our recently renovated office in Greater Boston. Visit Smileboston online to learn more about our full menu of services and call (617) 277-4100 to schedule an appointment at our Brookline office.