It’s a universal truth that maintaining good oral health becomes extra challenging as you get older. We know that there are several common oral health problems that come with aging, so this is possible even through a lifetime of good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.
Seniors are most likely to encounter dental complications due to certain conditions of aging. However, this can be prevented by understanding the risks and, second, by implementing more thorough dental hygiene.
The following are dental complications most common to adults and the ways to overcome them.
Gum Disease
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) said that 25% of adults between ages 25 and 74 suffer from severe gum disease. Gum disease is prevalent among adults, and is responsible for damaging the bones and tissues surrounding the teeth, leading to tooth loss if left untreated.
Prevention:
Awareness of bacterial presence related to food intake can prevent adults from developing gum disease. Stay away from periodontal disease by practicing a consistent dental care routine with regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist. Try eat these foods to keep your gums healthy.
Tooth Decay
Dry mouth is a known problem among adults, especially those taking medications. Most often, it is a side effect of treatments for cancer, radiation and other underlying diseases. Saliva is responsible for neutralizing bacterial toxins in the mouth. Therefore, insufficient saliva will cause germs to build up on the teeth or any exposed root surfaces.
Prevention:
Limit foods that are high in sugar. Brush your teeth daily and floss properly. Remember to visit the dentist for other recommended treatments at least twice a month. Drink plenty of water, avoid high-sugar chewing gums, suck on lozenges, and make sure your nose is not clogged so that breathing doesn’t rely too much on the mouth.
Worn-Out Dental Work
The dental work you received in the past correlates to your aging – it also tends to wear out. Those old fillings that were placed by your dentist from years ago can start to leak or break, causing decay underneath the old filling.
Prevention:
Stay alert that whenever you experience the first signs of sensitivity and pain, and contact your dentist immediately. Leaky and broken fillings, like crowns and root canals, can be restored if they are treated early.
Oral Cancer
It is possible for adults to develop oral cancer as they age. Those most at risk are smokers and those who drink too much alcohol. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research said that patients over 40 years old are most likely to acquire oral cancer.
Prevention:
One thing is certain: It’s never too late to change your lifestyle. From now on, avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking too many alcoholic beverages. Your dentist can screen you for oral cancer at your regular check-ups. When oral cancer is caught early, it can be treated successfully.
What if there are overwhelming obstacles to good dental hygiene?
Adults with physical limitations like arthritis have difficulty with brushing and flossing their teeth. The best person to ask help from is obviously your dentist. Dentists can recommend dental products to simplify home hygiene. This includes an electric toothbrush, floss holders, special bristle patterns and interdental cleaners that can make a big difference to your oral care.