Have you ever wondered how long your teeth should last? With proper care, your teeth should last a lifetime. Tooth loss is not a standard characteristic of aging. However, most older adults experience tooth loss due to poor dental hygiene. Older people are also at an increased risk of oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It is possible to have a mouth full of teeth throughout your life. Factors contributing to tooth issues in older adults include inconsistent brushing and flossing, smoking, a poor diet, inconsistent dental visits, a dry mouth, and particular medications.
The Impact Of Aging On Oral Health
Maintaining proper oral health becomes more challenging as we age. Certain physiological changes, accompanied by lifestyle factors, can impact the health of our gums and teeth. A significant percentage of adults over 65 have some form of gum disease, while others have lost almost all their natural teeth. The risk of oral health complications increases with age.
Here is how aging affects your oral health:
You Can Develop A Dry Mouth
Reduced saliva production can cause dry mouth, creating a conducive environment for bacterial growth. Also called xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition that occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth do not produce adequate saliva. The risk of dry mouth increases as we age due to several factors. One of the leading causes of dry mouth in aging people is the natural aging process. As we age, the salivary glands become less efficient, thus producing less saliva.
Many older adults take medications that cause dry mouth as a side effect. These medications include antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications. Other conditions that can contribute to dry mouth in adults include Sjogren’s syndrome, lifestyle factors like alcohol use and smoking, and radiation therapy on the head and neck.
Saliva is crucial to maintaining proper oral health. Thus, a dry mouth can be a severe dental issue. Saliva neutralizes the acids that the bacteria in your mouth release. This acid can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva also lubricates your mouth, making eating, swallowing, and speaking easier.
You are at a Higher Risk of Gum Recession
Gum recession is a common dental issue when your gums pull back from your teeth, exposing the tooth roots. Receding gum is a common issue in older adults. Gum recession can expose the tooth roots, making the teeth more susceptible to decay. The natural aging process contributes to gum recession as you age. Over time, your gums can shrink and recede, exposing the tooth and causing tooth sensitivity and decay. The process can be made worse by other factors like tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications.
Gum recession can also occur due to aggressive brushing and flossing, which can tear away your gum tissue and cause recession. Most older adults have used hard-bristled toothbrushes for years and suffer from gum recession.
Hormonal changes can also increase the risk of gum recession in adults. You can experience gum recession during menopause or if you have conditions like diabetes, which can affect the health of your gums. Gum recession is a serious oral health issue because, if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
In some cases, gum recession requires periodontal treatment like gum graft. A gum graft can restore the lost gum tissue and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. Regular dental checkups can help dentists identify dental issues early, allowing timely treatment and management.
Changing Nutritional Needs
There is a complex relationship between aging, nutrition, and oral health. Your nutritional needs can change as you age, making maintaining a healthy and balanced diet challenging. This could directly impact your oral health because your teeth and gums need certain nutrients to thrive. The lack of essential vitamins like calcium and vitamins can weaken your teeth over time, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease is a severe condition that can cause many dental issues, including tooth loss. Most older adults require supplementary nutritional support to maintain proper oral health.
Your Teeth Undergo Wear and Tear
The tooth enamel wears off over time, making the teeth susceptible to decay. Over time, your teeth can become worn down due to regular use or exposure to acidic foods and drinks, making them susceptible to sensitivity and decay. A common sign of wear and tear on your teeth is tooth enamel erosion. The tooth enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth. It is hard and designed to withstand wear and tear. However, with time, the continued use and exposure to different elements can erode the enamel.
Wear and tear on teeth could also cause them to be misaligned, giving rise to bite problems and affecting how your teeth fit together. This can cause pain, discomfort, or difficulty chewing and speaking. Even if wear and tear on teeth is a natural component of aging, you can take several measures to minimize the effects. Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can remove food particles and bacteria contributing to tooth decay. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding acidic foods and drinks can also help.
Medical Conditions Associated With Aging Can Affect Your Teeth
Systematic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis could also adversely affect oral health. Most common medical conditions in older adults can lead to dental issues or worsen existing dental problems. Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues because high blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
Conditions like osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease also affect oral health. Osteoporosis is a condition that makes the bones weak and brittle. The condition increases the risk of tooth loss because it weakens the bones that support the teeth. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that can make it challenging for a person to remember to brush or floss their teeth. Managing age-related medical conditions is crucial for maintaining proper oral health.
Why It Is Crucial To Maintain Proper Oral Health In Old Age
Senior dental concerns, including dry mouth and gum disease, are prevalent. Because oral health directly impacts overall health, these issues must be handled carefully. Taking care of your teeth and gums in old age is just as crucial as maintaining your digestive and cardiovascular health.
Here are reasons why senior dental care is essential:
Oral Health Affects Heart Health
There is a proven link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Proper dental hygiene effectively protects against heart attacks, strokes, and other heart disease complications. People with periodontal disease are more likely to have coronary artery disorder or heart disease. Typical oral disorders, including gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss, are just as strong predictors of cardiovascular illness as cholesterol levels.
Poor Oral Health Can Increase The Risk Of Pneumonia
Poor dental health has been associated with pneumonia in older people. Seniors are more prone to the illness because they inhale bacterial droplets from their mouths into their lungs. Proper oral hygiene is an effective way to battle these bacteria. Oral health care is especially vital in nursing homes and caregiving settings, as many people struggle to care for their teeth and must rely on caregivers.
Higher Risk Of Diabetes
Severe gum disease, known as periodontitis, impairs the body’s ability to absorb insulin. Diabetes-related high blood sugar levels can cause gum infection. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental examinations can prevent this illness.
You Can Develop Darkened Teeth
The dentin, or bone-like structure underlying the tooth enamel, changes with age due to the food and drinks we consume. Staining and thinning the enamel layer, which makes yellow dentin visible, can result in darker teeth.
Denture-Induced Stomatitis
Improper fitting dentures, inadequate dental hygiene, or fungus can cause this illness. Candida albicans accumulation is an inflammation of the tissue beneath a denture. It can be very uncomfortable for our elderly people.
Whether Teeth Shrink With Age
Teeth do not shrink as you age. However, poor brushing and flossing habits, sugary and acidic meals and beverages, and teeth grinding can wear away the tooth enamel over time. This can make your teeth appear shorter. There are several ways to recover severely worn-down teeth.
You can reduce tooth enamel erosion by asking your dentist if brushing and flossing practices are adequate for your mouth. Using fluoride toothpaste or prescribed fluoride if appropriate and limiting your intake of fruit juices, soft drinks, or other acidic beverages, coffee, and sugary snacks can also reduce enamel erosion.
Proactive Measures That Can Help You Maintain Good Oral Health As You Age
Now that you understand the link between aging and your oral health, let us explore ways of preserving your oral health as you age:
Observe a Healthy Diet
Observing a healthy, nutrient-rich diet can keep your teeth and gums healthy, even in old age. Ensure that your food gives you the recommended vitamin D and calcium dosage. You can also consider adding the necessary supplements to your diet. Lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats are the foundation of good oral health. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks because they can elevate the risk of tooth decay.
Undergo Regular Dental Checkups
No matter your age, regular dental checkups are crucial. During routine dental checkups, your dentist can identify potential oral issues early and take corrective action. If caught early, many oral health issues can be treated and reversed using a minimally invasive treatment that preserves your teeth and gums. In the long run, you will enjoy better oral health with healthy and intact teeth and gums.
You should aim to undergo at least two dental checkups every year. Always remember that prevention is your best bet. Do not wait until you have a significant oral health issue before you visit your dentist. Inform the dentist about any unexpected changes in your mouth. Inform your dentist if you are starting a new medicine because certain medications can impact oral health.
Consume Adequate Water
Health experts insist on the importance of drinking water regularly. Consuming enough water can improve your oral health. Water washes away food particles and bacteria, cleaning your teeth after meals. You should substitute sugary drinks with water.
Consuming water throughout the day can also combat dry mouth, a common issue among older adults. If you experience chronic dry mouth, discuss the issue with your dentist. Your dentist can recommend treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you manage the symptoms of dry mouth.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial. Brush and floss your teeth twice per day. Only use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth because it is gentle on your gums. Brush your teeth daily and use a mouthwash to get rid of bacteria. If mobility issues make brushing or flossing your teeth challenging, speak to your dentist.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can cause several oral health issues. It is a leading cause of gum disease and oral cancer. Smoking can also lead to early tooth loss due to tooth decay. If you smoke, consider stopping to preserve your oral health.
Early Intervention Helps
Early intervention is critical for reducing tooth decay and gum disease-related tooth loss. The early stages of gum disease are treatable by tooth cleanings, root planing, and scaling. Early gingivitis, or the initial stage of gum disease, can sometimes be reversed. However, advanced phases need more invasive surgical procedures.
When an adult tooth is lost, it does not regrow like a baby tooth. Fortunately, various tooth replacement solutions exist to help you recover your attractive smile. Tooth restoration options include dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants.
Find An Experienced Dentist Near Me
Aging is inevitable, but the oral health problems associated with it are avoidable. You have the power to influence your oral health. Understanding the link between aging and oral health is crucial to taking proactive measures to mitigate the inherent risks. If you have concerns regarding your oral health or want to know how to maintain it, contact us today.
Our dentists at The Lakewood Dentist can help you maintain the health of your teeth and gums despite the effects of aging. From tooth cleanings and fillings to periodontal disease treatment, we have the treatments you require to keep your smile in excellent condition. Call us at 562-423-1441 to speak to one of our dentists.