Dental Care

Tooth tips for seniors

Advancing age puts many older adults at risk for a number of oral health problems, but there are some steps that can be taken to improve anyone’s dental care. Age by itself does not necessarily cause poor dental health, but it may lead to other medical conditions that will. For example, arthritis may make brushing or flossing difficult for some seniors. Other people may have to take certain medications that upset the healthy environment of the mouth.

Daily Oral Hygiene

For seniors, as well as people of any age, daily brushing and flossing is the key to good dental health. Oral hygiene is often neglected in seniors’ centers, allowing plaque to build up and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. This can be eliminated or avoided by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice per day. Flossing should be done at least once daily. This may be more difficult for seniors with arthritis or tremors, so enlist someone’s aid if necessary.

Many seniors get frustrated with all the other doctors’ appointments they are required to attend and cut out the dentist from their schedule. Regular cleanings and examinations are important in preventing future dental health problems, so do not be tempted to skip the dentist, even at busy times.

Dental Health Issues

Some common dental health issues for senior citizens include darkened teeth, dry mouth, root decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Some stains and discoloration may be caused by changes in dentin, the bone-like tissue that underlies the tooth enamel, and by a lifetime of consuming stain-causing foods and beverages. Many of these other conditions are caused by the normal changes of aging, such as the reduction in saliva or diminished sense of taste. Some diseases and medications may also reduce the flow of saliva, including cancer treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. Some other diseases or medications affecting the immune system can trigger the overgrowth of fungus in the mouth, also called thrush.

As gum tissue recedes from age and decay, the roots of the teeth may be exposed to decay-causing acids. Gum disease initially caused by plaque and later exacerbated by food particles, cigarettes, poor diet or ill-fitting bridges and dentures may also cause significant problems for senior citizens. Gum disease is also a major cause of tooth loss in seniors. This tooth loss can create imbalances in the jaw and headaches or other unexplained pains.