Changes happen throughout our organs, tissues, and cells as we age. In turn, those changes then impact our entire bodies, including the gums and teeth. Did you know oral health can also be affected by certain health conditions and medications? The American Dental Association says that older adults are at an increased risk of cavities as well, usually because of increased gum recession that exposes the roots. It can also be due to increased use of medications that produce xerostomia – an adverse effect of medications or from conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

The best way for older adults to combat these oral health concerns is to keep up with their twice-yearly dentist office visits for routine cleanings in Piedmont CA.

How to Protect Your Teeth and Gums

Regardless of age, everyone must take good care of their teeth, as this will ensure optimal oral health as we age. Here are some tips:

  • Talk to your doctor if medications you are taking are causing dry mouth; you may be able to switch.
  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • Floss once a day or more.
  • Refrain from smoking or using tobacco.
  • Visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
  • Avoid sweets and high-sugar beverages.

Age and Its Effect on Oral Health

Certain changes can start to happen slowly with age. These changes affect the tissue and bone in the mouth, which then increases the risk for oral health problems later on. Those changes include:

  1. The immune system gets weaker, leader to more rapid infection and longer healing times.
  2. Bones become weaker and less dense
  3. Cells start to renew at a slower rate
  4. Tissues get thinner and less elastic

Common Oral Health Problems to Expect With Age

From gum problems to dry mouth, there are several common oral health problems we may face as we age.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer, more common in older adults, is twice as common in males as in females. The most common causes of oral cancer include smoking and tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Other factors include:

  • Immunosuppressant medication
  • Long-term rubbing from rough teeth, fillings, or dentures
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • Poor dental hygiene

Gum Issues

Receding gums are a common affliction in older adults, occurring when the gum tissue starts to pull away from the tooth to expose the root. This can result in decay and inflammation thanks to the bacteria that can easily build up in there.

A common cause of receding gums is brushing too hard over a period of many years. But in reality, the most common cause of receding gums is periodontal disease (gum disease). Gingivitis, the earliest form of gum disease, results from plaque and tartar build up that can irritate the gums. The most severe form of gum disease is periodontitis, resulting in loss of teeth if not addressed quickly.

Other factors can place older adults at an increased risk for periodontal disease, such as:

  • Weakened immune system
  • Failure to brush and floss every day
  • Dry mouth
  • Failure to engage in regular dental care
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes

Dry Mouth

Older adults are at a higher risk for dry mouth due to a variety of factors such as age, medicine, or certain health conditions. Saliva’s job is to protect teeth from decay and ensure continued gum health, and as such it plays a big role in oral health maintenance. With age, though, our salivary glands fail to produce enough saliva, which puts older adults at an increased risk for:

  • Mouth sores
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, and tasting
  • Yeast infections in the mouth, AKA thrush
  • Gum disease and tooth decay

Medical problems can also lead to dry mouth from lack of saliva, such as:

  • Health conditions like stroke and diabetes.
  • Certain medications for treating high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression, and pain.
  • Side effects from cancer treatment.

Cavities

Cavities, caused by bacteria that can stick to your teeth, form when acid attacks tooth enamel. Every time you eat or drink, this bacteria gets fed, which then converts sugars and starches from food into acid. The CDC says that almost all adults (96 percent) age 65 years or older have had a cavity, and one in six adults age 65 years or older have untreated cavities.

Cavities develop at the root of the tooth, due to the fact that older adults are more likely to have receding gums. They can also form as a result of dry mouth and lack of saliva.

Book an Appointment With Piedmont Oaks Dental

Concerned about experiencing dental changes as you get older? No worries. We welcome you to speak with your dentist about these concerns at your next visit. To find out more, book an appointment in Piedmont CA. You can book online or call us (510) 654-6523.