Aging & Your Oral Health

Aging makes good oral hygiene habits more important

Your mouth, like the rest of your body, changes as you age. That's why it's so important for you to brush and floss every day and get regular checkups and cleanings.

As you grow older, you may take more medications. And you may have already discovered that many of those medications can cause xerostomia, or dry mouth. But, did you know that having a dry mouth can lead to cavities? You need saliva to wash away food particles and neutralize the acids that cause tooth decay. If you have a dry mouth, you can stimulate saliva production by sucking on sugarless candy or chewing sugarless gum. Your dentist can even prescribe an artificial saliva solution, if necessary.

Gums Recede
Your gums may recede, too, leaving the roots of you teeth exposed. Because the roots are covered with cementum, which is softer and less resistant to decay than enamel, they're more vulnerable to root caries. About seven out of ten people over 60 have that problem! Exposed roots can make your teeth more sensitive, but there's no need to suffer. Instead, talk to your dentist. He or she may prescribe regular home-applied fluoride rinses as well as you should avoid sugary foods and drinks.

Gum Disease Needs Attention
Gum disease can also be a problem for many people. More than half of all adults have gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums. And almost half of the adults over 45 have periodontitis which is a severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Advanced cases are especially common among older people. Your best bet - Prevention. Regular brushing and flossing, along with regular checkups and cleanings, will work to battle the bacteria and calculus that cause gum disease.

Good oral hygiene habits are always important. Although your chances of losing a tooth due to periodontal disease increase after age 65, you're still more likely to lose a tooth from tooth decay. If you've already lost teeth, prosthetic devices like bridges and partial dentures require specialized home hygiene techniques to keep them clean and prevent further problems.

Brush Twice a Day
Everyone should thoroughly clean their teeth every day, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush (hard bristles can irritate your gums). And don't forget to get between your teeth with floss! If you have arthritis or another condition that impairs your mobility, there are oral hygiene aids that you can use to care for your teeth. Again, ask you dentist or hygienist for guidance.

Studies show that people who take care of their teeth keep them longer and have fewer periodontal problems than people who don't.

A survey by the National Institute of Dental Research of 15,000 working adults between the ages of 18 and 65 found that half had lost only one tooth (not counting wisdom teeth). That's a good start but something that can be improved by more effective dental habits!