The Importance of Oral Health for ALL Generations

Each year that we grow older, the health of our teeth and mouth changes. Because of this, dental cleanings and regular appointments are crucial — especially for those over the age of 65. Unfortunately, maintaining and procuring dental work can be difficult as vulnerabilities like insurance, age, and lack of previous care get in the way.

Alexandria Smiles encourages those of all ages and backgrounds to seek dental care, no matter how long it may have been. There’s no time like the present to ensure that your oral health is in tip-top shape!

How Serious is Geriatric Dental Care?

With the addition of new health problems that arise as we age, we grow more susceptible to oral cancer, tooth decay, gum disease, and other threats which can be fatal. Monitoring dental health in conjunction with pre-existing conditions is necessary to living a long life.

For those suffering with diabetes, working with your dentist can prevent serious issues. Due to uncontrolled glucose levels in a diabetic person’s blood, excess inflammation can irritate the gums and increase the likelihood of developing gum and heart disease. In addition, too much sugar in one’s saliva can also encourage the growth of decay-causing bacteria in the mouth.

Another threat to older adults — particularly those who smoke — is bacterial pneumonia. The mortality rate for severe pneumonia cases is as high as 20%. Considering that the primary cause of death due to pneumonia is respiratory insufficiency, smokers over the age of 65 are twice as likely to breathe in the bacteria that develops into sickness and infection.

Dry Mouth, Dentures, and Decay

Of course, there are other reasons to take care of your mouth as you get older besides serious medical conditions. Problems such as dry mouth and loss of teeth are incredibly common and as much of a nuisance as they are detrimental to our overall health.

Dry Mouth, also known as xerostomia, affects up to 30% of patients over 65 and a whopping 40% of those over 80. Usually caused by side effects from medications, dry mouth can also derive from conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Combatting Dry Mouth: If you or someone you know is struggling with xerostomia, try increasing your water intake. Making an effort to limit alcoholic beverages and drinks high in sugar or caffeine can also help. Sucking on ice chips and/or sipping water throughout the day can also help alleviate discomfort. Although relief is only temporary, you can also use over-the-counter artificial moisturizing tools or saliva substitutes.  

Worsening Dry Mouth: One thing to note is that chronic dry mouth declines overall health and can lead to infection. For denture users, smokers, and diabetics, conditions like Thrush can develop and it is best to talk to your dentist for additional treatments.

Denture users also need to be proactive with their dental hygiene and oral health. Maintaining proper denture care not only increases the life of your appliance, but also lessens chances of developing other serious health concerns. Cleaning dentures regularly, removing and rinsing after eating, and soaking dentures overnight are just some of the ways to properly care for your false teeth. Be sure to talk to your dentist for additional information regarding proper denture care.

Common in those of all ages, tooth decay is prolific in senior citizens. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 or older have untreated tooth decay. This results in tooth loss which can lead to poor nutrition and infection.

Patients with severe cognitive impairments like dementia have an increased risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease as the ability to engage in home care is more difficult. Making sure that loved ones with these impairments are properly cared for is vital for their overall health.

Working Together with Your Dentist

Acknowledging that medical health works in tandem with our mouths is crucial to taking care of our bodies as we age. Being honest with dental health professionals about your medications and physical wellbeing gives you your best chance at keeping a healthy smile.

Whether you’re 18 or 98, maintaining proper oral health is of the utmost importance. Aside from reminding our children (and ourselves) to brush, floss, and go to regular check-ups, take some time to encourage older family and friends. By doing this, you’re helping keep their smiles in our lives for many more years to come!

Alexandria Smiles is here for you, at any age!

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