Oral Health for Older Patients

The demographic of older adults, 65 years of age and older is growing and likely will be an increasingly large part of many dental practices in the coming years. People are living longer; the average life expectancy for Americans is 78.7 years.  Many older patients take prescription medications for their medical conditions.  People want to save their teeth as long as they can to improve and sustain the quality of their life. 

Oral health impacts the health of the rest of the body and it is true that the condition of the health also impacts your oral health.

Here are some reasons that older patients’ dental care is so important:

Heart Disease

·       Studies have shown that maintaining good oral hygiene is a powerful weapon against heart attacks, strokes, other heart disease conditions

·       According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), patients with periodontal disease are twice (2x) more likely to have heart disease

Diabetes

·       According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes occurs when the body’s blood glucose exceeds normal level

·       Type 2 Diabetes is more common in older adults

·       Type 2 diabetics are at greater risk for periodontal disease.  High blood sugar can lead to gum infection and tooth loss

Dry Mouth-lack of production of saliva in the mouth

·       Dry mouth can be a side effect of taking prescription and over the counter medications

·       Dry mouth can be a side effect of cancer treatment that use radiation to the head and neck area

·       Tooth and root decay are common with dry mouth condition

·       Gum infection and periodontal disease

Gum Disease

·       Gum tissues surrounding teeth become infected due to build up of plaque

·       Gum disease is one of the reasons people have tooth loss

·       Studies show that 68% of those 65 years or older Americans have periodontal disease. It can destroy gums, bone, and ligaments that support teeth

·       Gum disease may be related to the cause of some health problems; heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia, and other health issues

Denture-Induced Stomatitis

·       Inflammation of the gum tissues under an ill-fitting denture

·       Inflammation of the gum tissues due to poor oral hygiene

Some Dental Health Risks in Older Patients

·       Tooth Decay-according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), about 96% of the adults aged 65 and older have had at least one cavity previously.  About 20% currently have untreated tooth decay.

·       Root decay- gum tissues recede and root surfaces become exposed and susceptible to root decay and may lead to tooth loss

·       Dry Mouth-reduced saliva production in the mouth may be caused by medications as well as cancer treatment that use radiation to the heads and neck areas.  Dry mouth increases tooth and root decay

·       Gum Disease-Untreated gum disease (inflammation of gum tissue and bone loss) would lead to tooth loss

Here are some expert tips from the American Dental Association that are good guideline to follow:

·       Brush 2x per day with a toothbrush, use fluoride-containing toothpaste and floss daily

·       Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice per day

·       If you wear full or partial dentures, remember to clean them daily

·       Take the dentures out of the mouth for at least 4 hours every day, and it is best to remove them at night

·       Drink water-it helps to prevent tooth decay

·       Quit smoking-increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss

·       Visit the dentist on a regular schedule, every 6 months, for a complete dental check-up, cleaning and oral exam

·       Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet

Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  She is experienced in all phases of dentistry.  She treats patients of all ages.  If you have not had a dental check up for a while, it is time to call for a dental examination now.   Call our office at 626-335-5114 for a dental appointment or visit us at www.annaleedds.com