Five Common Senior Dental Problems

As we age, our dental needs change. This is due not only to age itself, but to a slew of developments that have a great impact on the health of our teeth, gums and dental function. From introducing new medications, to the long-term consequences of lifestyle choices, our dental well-being often needs some extra attention as we get older. Here are five common dental problemsencountered by senior patients:

Dry Mouth

Having a dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable and irritating, it’s actually a health concern that can have a huge impact on health. A common side effect when taking medication, dry mouth is caused by a lack of saliva flow. This lack of saliva means food remnants and bacteria are not washed away and take up residence in between teeth and under the gum line, and. acids that cause tooth decay are not naturalized as quickly. Without saliva flow, teeth absorb fewer protective, nurturing minerals like calcium and fluoride. Ultimately, dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and multiple cavities.

Darkened Teeth

Darkening teeth is the change we see in dentin as we age. Dentin is the like tissue that lies underneath tooth enamel. Dentin can gradually darken due to life-long habits, such as tobacco use, stain-causing foods and drinks, and even dead teeth.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a highly prevalent condition experienced by a large percentage of the adult population. Caused by bacteria in plaque, gum disease inflames and irritates gums, resulting in swelling, bleeding, bad breath and more. Advanced gum disease can destroy bone and gums, and even cause teeth to become loose or fall out. It has been linked to many health conditions and diseases including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. To avoid gum disease, dentists recommend annual or bi-annual professional cleanings, depending on the patient’s dental needs and health.

Diminished Taste

Full dentures – a common restorative appliance for seniors – can block the palate, affecting the way we taste our food. As people age, taste buds tend to lose their strength, but when coupled with dentures, it can change the way seniors view eating, diminishing quality of life. Routine visits to a dentist will help to maintain oral health and can potentially stop or prolong the need for full dentures.

Oral Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) approximately 39,500 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. Of those, an estimated 7,500 people will die from the disease. Oral cancer becomes more prevalent with age, which is why regular dental visits are vital for your health. With regular screenings cancerous regions can be detected and more successfully treated.

Maintaining oral health through at-home hygiene care and routine dental appointments will help to prevent many types of dental problems. Schedule an appointment with our Scottsdale dentist, Dr. Marcia Blazer to receive the gentle care that you deserve to treat and prevent common dental problems that can arise from the natural aging process