Senior Dental Care: Dental Health Tips for Adults Over 60

It’s never too late to start taking care of your dental health! In this blog post, we will provide tips for senior dental care. Seniors are more at risk for dental problems, so it is important to take steps to protect your teeth and gums. We will discuss topics such as brushing and flossing, diet and oral hygiene products. We hope that this information will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums well into your golden years!

How Dental Health Changes for Senior Citizens

The first thing to understand is how dental health changes as we age. As we get older, our risk for developing dental problems increases. This is due to a number of factors, including:

• Reduced saliva production: Saliva is important for keeping your mouth healthy. It helps to wash away food and bacteria, and it also contains minerals that can help to remineralize your teeth. Unfortunately, seniors often have reduced saliva production, which can lead to an increased risk for cavities and other dental problems.
• Gum disease: Gum disease is a common problem in seniors. It occurs when the gums become inflamed and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth is another common problem in seniors. It occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Common Dental Health Problems for Senior Citizens

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems, such as:

• Darkened teeth. Caused, to some extent, by changes in dentin — the bone-like tissue that underlies the tooth enamel — and by a lifetime of consuming stain-causing foods and beverages. Also caused by thinning of the outer enamel layer that lets the darker yellower dentin show through. A darkened tooth or teeth may be a sign of a more serious problem and should be checked by your dentist.
• Dry mouth.  Caused by reduced saliva flow, which can be a result of cancer treatments that use radiation to the head and neck area, as well as certain diseases, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, and medication side effects. Many medicines can cause dry mouth.
• Diminished sense of taste. While advancing age impairs the sense of taste, diseases, medications, and dentures can also contribute to this sensory loss.
• Root decay. This is caused by exposure of the tooth root to decay-causing acids. The tooth roots become exposed as gum tissue recedes from the tooth. Roots do not have any enamel to protect them and are more prone to decay than the crown part of the tooth.
• Gum disease. Caused by plaque and made worse by food left in teeth, use of tobacco products, poor-fitting bridges and dentures, poor diets, and certain diseases, such as anemia, cancer, and diabetes, this is often a problem for older adults.
• Tooth loss.Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
• Uneven jawbone. This is caused by tooth and then not replacing missing teeth. This allows the rest of the teeth to drift and shift into open spaces
• Denture-induced stomatitis. Ill-fitting dentures, poor dental hygiene, or a buildup of the fungus Candida albicans cause this condition, which is inflammation of the tissue underlying a denture.
• Thrush. Diseases or drugs that affect the immune system can trigger the overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the mouth.

Senior Dental Care: Dental Health Tips for Adults Over 60

Now that we have discussed how dental health changes as we age, let’s take a look at some specific dental health tips for seniors.

Brush and floss regularly:

Brushing and flossing are the two most important things you can do for your dental health. Be sure to brush twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles. You should also floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

Use an antibacterial mouthwash:

Mouthwashes can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride to help prevent cavities.

See your dentist regularly:

It is important to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can help to identify problems early and recommend treatment if necessary.

Use dental products that contain fluoride:

Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Look for toothpaste, mouthwash, and other dental products that contain fluoride.

Eat a healthy diet:

A healthy diet is important for overall health, including dental health. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks as much as possible.

These are just a few of the dental health tips that are important for seniors. By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy well into your golden years!

Make an Appointment with Glacier Creek Dental

At Glacier Creek Dental, we are committed to providing our patients of all ages with the best possible dental care. We offer a full range of dental services, including preventive care, restorative care, and cosmetic dentistry. To make an appointment, contact us today!