The structure of your bones changes as you age. Specifically, your bones become less dense as you grow older, which results in the loss of bone tissue. This change physically affects you in many ways, and your teeth are no exception.
When it comes to oral health, bone tissue deterioration means your teeth become more prone to damage, which is why 30 percent of American adults from 65 to 74 years old have no longer have their natural teeth.
Aside from tooth loss, older adults are at a higher risk of developing other oral health problems, including gum disease and root decay. Because of these, seniors should take extra care of their teeth and gums, ideally with the guidance of a family dentist specializing in dental care for all ages.
Below are other common oral health problems among the elderly.
Root Decay
Root decay occurs when the tooth enamel wears away and exposes the root to decay-causing acids. It’s not something you can simply avoid. Tooth enamel tends to thin as you age, which makes older adults even more vulnerable to tooth decay.
Older adults can keep their teeth roots from decaying by brushing their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Although fluoride can’t rebuild tooth enamel, it does contribute to the remineralization process that introduces minerals, especially calcium, to the teeth. These minerals bond to the weak points in the enamel and act as an extra layer of protection for your teeth.
Tooth Discoloration
Your teeth have a layer of yellowish tint underneath the enamel called dentin, which shows as the enamel wears away. The thinner your enamel becomes, the darker the stain that shows through.
Although worn-off enamel is a common cause of yellowing teeth, other factors also come into play, such as using tobacco, taking certain medications, having certain diseases, and maintaining poor dental hygiene.
This is why it’s important to keep seeing a dentist as you age. They’ll be able to tell if your tooth discoloration is caused by lifestyle factors or if it’s a sign of another dental problem.
Gum Disease
One reason gum disease is widespread among older adults is that it starts as a painless, almost undetectable condition (i.e., gingivitis) until it becomes severe (i.e., periodontitis). By then, the disease will have already attacked the bones that support the teeth, causing tooth loss and bleeding gums.
Aside from age, factors like tobacco use, ill-fitting dentures, food left in teeth, and a poor diet also increase the likelihood of gum disease. Older adults with chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, and anemia are also more vulnerable to periodontitis.
As with other oral health problems, the best defense against gum disease is proper dental hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing dislodge tiny bits of food and sticky bacteria stuck between the teeth, keeping both your teeth and gums healthy.
If you’re getting dentures, make sure they fit you properly. Ill-fitting dentures can rub against the gum tissues, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and even painful sores that can lead to infections.
You shouldn’t stop seeing your dentist as you grow older. In fact, you should be more diligent with your dentist appointments since you’re more vulnerable to oral health problems. Your dentist will keep a close eye on the health of your teeth and gums and prescribe treatments or medications immediately when they spot the first signs of dental trouble.
Family Dentist in Scottsdale, Arizona
Rod W. Gore, DDS is a family dentist based in Scottsdale, offering general, restorative, and cosmetic dental care to patients of all ages, including older adults. We’ll make sure you receive the dental care you need at your current age so you can keep living your life to the fullest.
Call 480-585-6225 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment today.