Oral health in seniors
As we age, we become more susceptible to certain kinds of diseases and illnesses. Because oral health is so closely linked to the health of the rest of your body, it is vital that you take care of your mouth as you age.
Some of the problems which seniors may experience include:
- Tooth decay
Plaque is always building up on your teeth. Together, plaque and bacteria produce acid that can wear away your tooth enamel, causing cavities. Seniors often experience a condition called gingival, referring to gum recession, which exposes more of the tooth’s roots than when you were younger. Due to this increased exposure of your tooth, it is more susceptible to plaque and tooth decay. Root cavities are common in seniors, so it is important to make sure you’re cleaning the area of your teeth close to your gums thoroughly. - Dry mouth
Dry mouth allows bacteria and plaque to build up in your mouth, resulting in issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Dry mouth is common as it is a symptom of several different types of medication. To prevent this, take preventative measures: drink more water, stop smoking if you do, and minimize alcohol consumption. If you still have dry mouth, consult your dentist. - Periodontal (gum) disease
A problem that can be caused by plaque is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This occurs when plaque and bacterial get under the gums, causing pain and tooth loss. Although some forms of gum disease can be treated with increased brushing and mouthwash, more serious cases of gum disease need to be treated professionally. If you have pain in your gums, notice bleeding at the gum line, or suspect some other problem, visit your dentist. - Mouth cancer
Mouth cancer generally affects people older than 62. This means that people over 60 need to be on the lookout for symptoms, including sores or sore spots in the mouth, a lump in the mouth, pain in the mouth, gum discolouration, and more. If you notice any of these symptoms or something else that looks suspicious, talk with your dentist. - Dentures
It’s important for people with dentures to keep both the dentures and the inside of their mouth clean. Brushing both your mouth and your dentures is important to prevent any oral health problems, and floss your dentures to remove anything missed whilst brushing.
