Maintaining good oral health at any age is important. However, as you age your mouth become more susceptible to oral diseases and good oral hygiene becomes even more crucial for a healthy mouth.
According to a 2011 to 2015 Canadian longitudinal study on aging, 14.2 percent of adults between the ages of 60-79 years suffer from poor oral health. Common oral health issues observed in Seniors include tooth loss, dental caries, and periodontitis.
Whether it is managing conditions such as dry mouth or dealing with more serious oral problems, these insights from our North Vancouver dentists will help you keep your mouth healthy as you enjoy your golden years.
How aging affects oral health?
The aging process can result in specific challenges that require attention to maintain a healthy mouth. Here are some ways aging affects your oral health:
Slower cell renewal
As you get older, and cells become larger they are less able to multiply. This causes the regeneration of supporting tissue around tooth to be severely impacted. Simply put, your body heals at a much slower rate.
Tissues become thinner
With age the tissues in our mouth become thinner and more delicate. As a result, your mouth is more vulnerable to irritation, infections, and injuries from everyday activities, such as chewing.
Bones are less dense
Reduced bone density, known as osteoporosis, can affect the bone in your mouth leading to a weaker jaw over time. This can cause teeth to become lose or even fall out. It can also lead to instability and loose-fitting dentures resulting in discomfort or difficulty in chewing.
How poor oral health affects overall health?
The consequences of poor oral health extend beyond your teeth. Understanding these consequences can help you make informed decisions and potentially improve your quality of life.
Increased risk of heart disease
Gum disease can potentially lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. Individuals who suffer from chronic gum disease are two to three times more likely to have a significant cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke.
Increased risk of oral cancer
Your risk of developing oral cancer increases notably after the age of 45. The highest incidences of oral cancer are recorded in people over the age of 60. If you also have poor oral hygiene this could also increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
Poor nutrition
Teeth play a vital role in your nutrition as they help break down food into smaller pieces allowing your body to absorb nutrients easier. Missing teeth or pain can cause difficulty in eating which could have a negative impact on your health.
Maintaining oral health as a senior
Taking care of your teeth and gums in your later years is important, with the right habits, you can maintain a healthy smile. Here are some tips to help you keep your teeth and gums in the best shape:
Brush and floss daily
Brushing and flossing are essential to prevent the build up of plaque on teeth. This film is a mixture of bacteria and particulars left over from food. If left untreated, plaque can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove any food that may remain between teeth after.
Manage dry mouth
Dry mouth can increase your likelihood of getting tooth decay along the gum line. The condition is quite common in seniors mainly due to side effects from certain medications. To stimulate the production of saliva, chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy. Also, decrease or eliminate the use of tobacco or alcohol as they can exacerbate dry mouth.
Maintain dentures and implants
Ensuring dentures and implants are maintained well is just as important as maintaining your natural teeth. Poorly maintained dentures can lead to difficulty in chewing and speaking, pain, and infections. To properly care for your dentures, clean them twice daily. If you have fixed dentures, brush them twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. Where dentures can be removed, soak them overnight in a denture solution.
Visit your dentist regularly
Seeing a dentist on a regular basis is crucial, especially as you age. Routine check ups by your dentist can help you to identify any potential issues and tackle them early. Regular visits also help you to ensure dental implants fit and function well. During these visits, your dentist can also professionally clean your teeth to remove any build-up brushing and flossing may miss.
Addressing oral concerns with Peak Dental Arts
Aging doesn’t have to affect your smile if you have the right dental care team. At Peak Dental Arts Clinic, we provide you with tailored solutions that address your needs. Whether it’s a routine check-up or specialized treatment, we help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Call or text us at 778-601-7844 or email info@peakdentalarts.com to schedule an appointment today!
