Common Dental Problems in Older People

Common Dental Problems in Older People in Portage, MI

Aging inevitably leads to alterations in every part of our bodies, including cells, tissues, organs, and even our teeth and gums. While aging can bring about several common dental issues, navigating this stage of life with caution can mitigate many of them. Portage Northern Dental provides information about common dental problems in older people in Portage, MI. We’ll help you better understand how to stay in optimal oral health as you age.

Why Do Old People Lose Their Teeth?

Tooth loss is often associated with aging, but it’s not an inevitable part of growing older. While tooth loss becomes more common with age, it typically occurs due to preventable oral health issues rather than aging. We look closer at the primary reasons older adults may lose their teeth and how it can be avoided.

• Cavities: Even diligent brushers can fall victim to cavities. Dry mouth, a common occurrence in the elderly, can lead to reduced saliva, which is the first line of defense against cavities. Counter this by staying hydrated, chewing sugar-free gum to boost saliva production, and scheduling regular dental appointments.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Are you experiencing a sudden jolt of discomfort while enjoying your favorite hot or cold beverage? Receding gums or eroded enamel due to age are often to blame. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush can help with tooth sensitivity.
• Gum Disease: Gum disease can be deceptively sneaky. The most common signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, bad breath, or differences in how dentures fit. Regular dental visits and a thorough home care routine that includes flossing can shield your gums against this disease.
• Missing Teeth: Teeth falling out is frequent among the elderly, often due to neglected decay and gingivitis. Old people with no teeth can have problems with their appearance, capacity to chew, speech, and general health. Solutions for tooth loss involve dentures, bridges, and dental implants.
• Oral Cancer: Regular dental visits are critical as early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful oral cancer treatment. Stay vigilant for any changes, such as persistent lumps or sores. Information and proactive management can empower you to maintain your dental health.
• Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is often caused by medications or medical treatments that lessen saliva production. Saliva is critical to counteract acids, prevent decay, and support digestion. Managing dry mouth necessitates staying hydrated, using saliva substitutes, and discussing medication adjustments with a healthcare provider.
• Dentures: Denture hygiene is vital. Daily cleaning and overnight soaking are essential for those equipped with dentures. Remove dentures at night to give your gums some respite. Regular dental visits will ensure your dentures are fitting well and comfortably. A clean set of dentures can significantly improve oral health and overall well-being.
• Tooth Discoloration: Old people teeth are often discolored due to surface stains. Regular professional dental cleanings can help handle these stains. Moderating the intake of stain-prone foods and beverages like coffee and red wine can further assist. If discoloration persists, we can discuss options for professional teeth whitening to restore a youthful smile.
• Enamel Erosion: Enamel erosion is a slow process that can leave teeth vulnerable and sensitive. Limiting acidic foods and drinks, rinsing your mouth after acidic meals, and waiting to brush your teeth for 30 minutes after a meal can help prevent further damage. Regular dental checkups can help spot and control enamel erosion early.
• Jaw Joint Issues: Aging can cause jaw joint issues, causing discomfort or clicking sounds. Avoiding excessive chewing of hard foods and doing gentle jaw exercises can alleviate discomfort. Consult us for advice if you experience persistent jaw pain.
• Bad Breath: Bad breath in older people is often due to less brushing and flossing. Since older adults are more vulnerable to dry mouth, it’s vital to follow proper oral hygiene. We also recommend taking care of dentures properly to help eradicate bad breath.

Preventive Measures

While aging teeth problems are common, getting older doesn’t mean parting ways with a healthy, gleaming smile. Some preventive measures to follow to maintain oral hygiene when aging include:

• Dental Checkups: For elders, semi-annual dental visits are of the utmost importance for early detection and treatment of potential problems. These sessions allow dentists to carry out essential cleanings, inspect for indications of decay, gum diseases, and oral cancer, and give custom guidance for the upkeep of oral health.
• Proper Oral Hygiene: Excellent oral hygiene is crucial for avoiding dental issues. It is recommended that seniors brush their teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly to eliminate plaque and food residue.
• Healthy Diet: A nutritionally balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, boosts dental health. Consuming foods that have high levels of calcium and vitamin D, for instance, dairy products and green vegetables,

Solutions and Treatments for Senior Dental Care

Our team will recommend customized dental treatments that are fit for your care. Some of the most common solutions and treatments for senior dental care include:

• Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride fortifies tooth enamel and helps to prevent decay. Dentists might suggest fluoride treatments for mature adults, particularly those with a higher risk of cavities. These treatments can be applied during dental visits or through prescribed fluoride rinses and toothpaste.
• Dental Implants and Dentures: Dental implants and dentures are common solutions for elderly with missing teeth. Dental implants are permanent alternatives that imitate natural teeth while dentures are removable appliances that can replace multiple missing teeth.
• Periodontal Treatments: For older people with gum disease, periodontal treatments like deep cleaning, scaling, and root planning can aid in managing the condition. These procedures eliminate plaque and tartar below the gum line and smoothen the tooth roots to promote healing.
• Saliva Substitutes and Medications: To manage dry mouth, dentists may suggest saliva substitutes, mouthwashes designed for dry mouth, or medications that stimulate saliva production. It’s also imperative to review all medications with a healthcare provider to identify and adjust those contributing to dry mouth.
• Restorative Dentistry: Restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and bridges can repair damaged teeth and restore function. These procedures protect teeth from additional decay and enhance their appearance.

Contact Portage Northern Dental

Taking care of oral health is essential for maintaining overall health and life satisfaction. Regular dental checkups, proper oral hygiene, and a healthy diet are keys to preventing and managing common dental issues in the elderly. With the appropriate care and treatment, mature individuals can enjoy sturdy, functional teeth and gums throughout their later years. For reliable dental care, contact Portage Northern Dental.