Seniors experience dental problems just as much as youngsters do, so if you think your career as a dental patient is over once you get old, you’re wrong. As a matter of fact, teeth and mouth problems are one of the most common health issues in seniors. People over 65 often deal with tooth decay, produce less saliva, usually have damaged gums and might have difficulties with brushing and flossing. All of these dental problems make a yearly visit to the dentist an absolute must for all seniors. So, here is a guide that will tell you all you need to know about the most common dental issues, prevention, dentist visits, and much more.
Aging and dental problems
As people age, their gums slowly dry out and recede, leaving the roots of the teeth exposed to bacteria. Bacteria lead to cavities that can cause infections and further damage the teeth. However, regular dentist appointments might put an early stop to these problems. Another issue can develop from the plaque buildup. The plaque gives off acids that can cause serious gum disease. This problem can be eliminated with daily brushing and flossing (an electric toothbrush might be easier to use for older people because it doesn’t demand vigorous movements).
Also, if a senior wears dentures, they need to be refitted and checked regularly to avoid discomfort. Poorly fitted dentures can slip off and cause embarrassment, or even greater inconveniences like difficulties with eating. Another quite common problem in seniors is a reduced production of saliva. This might seem like a good thing, but actually, saliva is a great dental protector that can limit the growth of bacteria, remove food particles from the mouth and keep the teeth moist. So, a reduced amount of saliva can actually cause dental problems. Dry mouth can be caused by many things, particularly by certain medications. So, if you notice that your mouth is drier than usual, consult with your doctor to change your meds.
When to see the dentist
A regular yearly appointment with your dentist is an absolute must if you want to have healthy teeth and mouth. However, if you notice one of the following issues, make sure to see your dentist as soon as possible. For instance, occasional gum bleeding isn’t something that should scare you, but if you notice severe bleeding, it should be checked because it might be an early sign of oral cancer. Also, if you notice any bigger swellings near the eye, on the jaw or on the neck, get it checked out. It might be a serious infection that can even spread to other parts of your body and cause serious health threats. Additionally, every severe pain and gum change should be checked out by your chosen dentist.
Prevention
The best prevention is daily brushing and flossing. Bad oral hygiene can cause plaque and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. So, make sure to brush at least twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride (consult with your dentist and see what they recommend). You should also floss daily and rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash. Antibacterial mouthwash can kill bacteria that cause plaque and all sorts of diseases, so always have it at hand. However, regular visits to the dentist for an exam and teeth cleaning is the safest way to know that you’re doing a good job keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
What to expect when you visit a dentist for a checkup?
Most dentists always ask seniors about their medical history and previous dental exams. They will usually ask when your last checkup was and what the problem was. They will also ask if you have any current dental problems or if you’ve noticed some changes in your mouth (loose or sensitive teeth, gum lumps, swellings and such). Also, don’t forget to mention if you’ve been experiencing any difficulties in swallowing, chewing or tasting the food, as well as any pain, discomfort and bleeding.
The dentist usually checks your face and neck for discoloration, moles and sores; your bite for any problems with closing and opening the mouth; your jaw for clicks and pops in the joint; your inner cheeks for infections, ulcers and injuries; your tongue and palate for signs of infection or oral cancer; and finally, your teeth for decay, cracks and existing filling conditions. An experienced dentist will perform the exam in only a couple of minutes and give you advice on what to do next. So, find a clinic such as The Dental Room that cares about their patients and their well-being, and your teeth will be in great hands.
What does my dentist need to know?
Make sure to report all heart conditions and artificial joints. It might seem completely unimportant to you, but some conditions increase the possibility of infection and your dentist might give you antibiotics before any dental procedure.
So, make sure to see your dentist regularly and maintain your oral hygiene properly, and your teeth and mouth will be healthy and clean for many years to come.
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Most common seniors dental problems and how to deal with them.