As you age, you are probably becoming more aware of the physical changes your body is going through. You may notice arthritis, or higher blood pressure, or vision issues. Your aging body requires some additional attention. And, while you may regularly see your doctor for these things, what about your teeth? What can happen to your mouth as you age? How is your oral health affected? Here’s a look at several common issues that aging adults may encounter.
1. Dry Mouth. Certain medications may lead you to develop a dry mouth. It is always good to discuss this with your doctor and dentist as dry mouth can lead to increased cavities.
2. Bad Breath. A whole host of issues can lead to bad breath in seniors. Increased bacteria, poor care for dentures, medications, and tobacco use are just a few reasons for this.
3. Loss of Teeth. Without proper dental care, seniors can experience the loss of teeth.
4. Poor Denture Care. If you are a denture wearer, you are going to want to take proper care of them so that they do not shift in your mouth, irritate your gums or contribute to bad breath.
5. Discolored Teeth. After years of consuming food and drinks that may stain, many seniors are unhappy with the color of their teeth.
6. Gum Disease. Caused by plaque, this can be a problem in seniors and lead to tooth loss or other issues.
7. Cavities. It’s not just children who develop cavities – adults too.
If you have concerns about these (or any other dental issues), please set up an appointment for a consultation. We can discuss these issues and devise a course of treatment. Your dentist is an important part of your medical team as you age and we’re here to help.