Senior’s Teeth – As We Gracefully Age!

Since we were young, we always hear about how we should take care of our teeth. As we grow older, we begin to understand why we should be taking care of our teeth at such an early age. Maintaining good oral health habits is important most especially because unhealthy bacteria in the mouth can harm not only your teeth, gums, supporting bone, but they may also be associated with serious medical conditions. Studies have shown that infections in the mouth may be associated with stroke, heart disease, diabetes and other health problems that are common in the elderly. Here are some of the common oral problems that the elderly experience:

 

Toothaches

Heavily filled teeth or teeth under bridges and crowns may look sound, but the nerves in these teeth might eventually become infected. When this happens, the dead nerve tissue within the tooth might become infected and toothaches can follow. The ideal treatment for this problem would be root canal treatment in order to safe and retain your natural tooth.

 

Tooth Decay

Older people are often more vulnerable to tooth decay and this is possibly due to a preference for sweeter foods, a decrease in saliva flow and/or one’s manual dexterity with their oral hygiene. Another factor would be lack of access to dental treatment. Tooth decay is largely preventable by reducing the frequency and quantity of sugar consumption and, of course, proper oral hygiene. If an older person eats only 5 times a day and brushes with fluoride-filled toothpaste at least twice a day, it would be difficult for tooth decay to develop. Food grazing without rinsing in between brushing and flossing throughout the day is also bad as this means there is sugar and acid against the teeth all day long.

 

Broken Teeth

Decayed or worn teeth as well as old fillings break down and they often leave sharp ends that the tongue plays with. This can lead to tongue ulceration which can be very sore. If you are experiencing this, have Dr. Marvin Lean smooth off the sharp piece as soon as possible.

 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis (bleeding gums) is present in almost all mouths. Gum disease that causes a loose tooth, or bone loss requires treatment. Regular trips to Dr. Marvin Lean’s clinic increases the chances of having the level of gum disease assessed.

 

Did you know that ninety percent of gum diseases can be prevented by effective oral hygiene – this should include cleaning in between the teeth with dental floss. Food impaction can cause sore gums and flossing might prevent this.

 

These are just some of the dental problems that Senior’s may experience. Prevention is always better than the cure. A s we age, it is important that we take care of our oral health more. It is also a must to have regular trips to Dr. Marvin Lean’s office as this prevents your oral problems from worsening and developing into more complex conditions.

Why Good Oral Health Matters For Seniors

Good oral health is important at any age, but especially for seniors as they are at a high risk of several dental health conditions. Seniors must closely follow a strict oral care regimen in order to protect their health and ensure they achieve comfort in their golden years. Within this article, we’ll look at the leading reasons oral health is so important for seniors.

Periodontal Diseases Associated with Increased Risk of Stroke

The latest data shows that gum diseases have been associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart disease and respiratory problems. Seniors suffer these conditions in greater number and are therefore at a greater risk of encountering health issues if they don’t take care of their teeth and gums. Simply brushing and flossing every day can help remove the plaque and bacteria known to cause gum disease.

Seniors are More Likely to Suffer Dry Mouth

As we age, it’s more likely that we will be taking some form of medication. The medications we take can have significant side-effects and one of the most common is dry mouth. It’s important to recognize the impact that dry mouth can have on oral health. When our gums and teeth don’t have saliva to protect them, they’re more likely to develop gum disease and cavities. And for seniors, these oral health issues are more dangerous than the same condition in a younger person. To reduce dry mouth, it’s important to drink water throughout the day as well, chewing sugar free gum to help stimulate saliva.

Seniors More Likely to Neglect Their Oral Health

One of the reasons why so many seniors are now suffering from significant oral health conditions is that they are more likely, compared with the general population, to neglect their oral health needs. Often, this isn’t their fault. Some don’t have the capacity to brush their teeth regularly and shop for oral health products. Others don’t have the ability to visit the dentist on a regular basis. It’s important for those with elderly family members, friends and neighbours to consider this problem and to offer assistance where possible. It could help protect their health and ensure they achieve greater comfort as they age.

Seniors must protect their oral health to ensure a greater chance of a comfortable lifestyle free from health concerns. Each member of society plays in a role in helping our seniors in meeting their oral health objectives. To learn more on this issue, speak with our office team directly!