Why is it Important to Take Care of Your Dental Health as You Get Older?

Ageing is a natural process that’s inevitable, and we have to learn to embrace ageing. As exciting as it is, getting older comes with certain challenges, especially those with overall and dental health. Maintaining dental health can be challenging and overwhelming for seniors, especially who have some chronic health ailments like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart problems. Yes, existing health conditions can make teeth and gums more vulnerable to dental problems.

A lifetime of biting, chewing, and grinding can result in wear and tear combined with medications, medical conditions, and a potential decrease in dental care, leading to various oral health problems in older adults. Poor oral hygiene can lead to inflamed gums, significant tooth pain, bleeding and infected gums.

Here‘s why it’s important to take care of your dental health as you age, suggested by dentist Epping:-

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems affecting all age group of people, especially seniors. Tooth decay can lead to the formation of cavities, causing infection, pain, and tooth loss in the worst cases. Tooth decay is often caused by plaque and tartar build-up. A diet with lots of sugary and starchy foods, a tendency to snack between meals, and a decrease in saliva production are the major contributors to the formation of cavities. In addition, for seniors, certain medical conditions can play a vital role as well. Brushing and flossing can become difficult and painful for those with arthritis, dementia, and other health conditions.

Preventive measure is the key to preventing cavities from affecting the gums and teeth. Brushing twice a day, following a healthy diet, and drinking more water is some of the best ways to prevent cavities.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss among seniors. It’s caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar. Irritated, red, and bleeding gums are the symptoms of gum disease. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums, an initial stage. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can damage the gums tissues and underlying bone, resulting in tooth loss. Visiting the dental clinic Epping for check-ups and cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar and keep them at bay.

Dry Mouth

Seniors experience decreased saliva production as they age, and it’s the side effect of the medications. The problem with dry mouth is that sugar and acid tend to build up more, resulting in an increased chance of cavities and gum disease.

Oral Cancer

Seniors who smoke or drink alcohol frequently are at a higher risk of oral cancer. It’s worthwhile to visit the dentist Epping nsw regularly to have the dentist look for signs of oral cancer and treat the symptoms earlier.

For more queries on senior dental care, please get in touch with our team.

At Serenity Smiles Dental, we value the important role that your teeth play in your life. As such, our Epping dentists are committed to offering the highest level of dentistry.