Four oral health conditions to think about as we age

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March 16th, 2016



As we grow older, certain health concerns garner our full attention, especially oral health issues. We only get one set of permanent teeth, so it’s crucial to take care of them for our entire lives. Teeth can last a lifetime with proper care, such as brushing and flossing, as well as visiting your dentist regularly. But, even if you brush and floss daily, seniors may face certain issues that make caring for their oral health more challenging. There are 4 main conditions that are top of mind for seniors as it pertains to oral health: Dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, difficulty eating and gum disease.

Dry mouth is an issue for many seniors that effects around 20% of the aging population due to a reduced flow of saliva. Many seniors are on medications for a variety of chronic conditions that may cause dry mouth. Common medications taken that may cause dry mouth are antihistamines, blood pressure medications, pain pills, antidepressants and muscle relaxers. To help with dry mouth, dental professionals recommend drinking plenty of water and limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine while on medication. If your dry mouth persists longer than a few weeks, visit your dentist.

Tooth sensitivity can be an increasing problem as one ages. Your gums naturally recede over time, exposing areas of the tooth that are not protected by proper enamel. These areas are particularly prone to pain due to cold or hot beverages or food. If you experience sensitivity, visit your dentist, as the sensitivity may be an indication of a more serious condition.

Difficulty eating: Oral health problems, whether from missing teeth, cavities or dentures cause difficulty eating and can force people to adjust the quality, consistency, and balance of their diet. When your mouth hurts or is uncomfortable, you are likely not wanting to eat food, causing you to not receive the proper nutrition your body needs on a daily basis.

Gum Disease: Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that hold teeth in place. While gum disease affects people of all ages, it typically becomes worse as you get older. Gum disease, which can range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease, is usually caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow dental plaque to build up on the teeth. Only a professional cleaning can remove tartar. Proper brushing, flossing, and visiting our office regularly can prevent gum disease.

For more information on your oral heath, visit DeltaDentalMN.org.