As we age, changes happen throughout our organs, tissues, and cells — those changes then impact out entire bodies, including the gums and teeth. Oral health can also be affected by certain health conditions and medications. According to the American Dental Association, older adults are at an increased risk of cavities as well, due to increased gum recession that exposes the roots as well as increased use of medications that produce xerostomia. This is an adverse effect of medications or from conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

One big way in which older adults can combat these oral health concerns is to keep up with their twice-yearly dentist office visits for routine cleanings in Berkeley CA.

How Does Age Affect Oral Health?

Certain changes can start to happen slowly with age, affecting the tissue and bone in the mouth, which then increases the risk for oral health problems later on. Those changes include:

  • Cells start to renew at a slower rate
  • Tissues get thinner and less elastic
  • Bones become weaker and less dense
  • The immune system gets weaker, leader to more rapid infection and longer healing times.

Older Adults: Common Oral Health Problems

From dry mouth to gum problems, there are many common oral health problems we may face as we age.

Dry Mouth

Older adults have a higher risk for dry mouth due to age, medicine, or certain health conditions. Because saliva protects teeth from decay and ensures continued gum health, it plays a big role in oral health maintenance. As we age, though, the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, which puts us at an increased risk for:

  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, and tasting
  • Gum disease and tooth decay
  • Mouth sores
  • Yeast infections in the mouth, AKA thrush

Medical problems also contribute to dry mouth due to lack of saliva, such as:

  • Certain medications for treating high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression, and pain.
  • Side effects from cancer treatment.
  • Health conditions like stroke and diabetes.

Gum Issues

It’s common for older adults to experience receding gums. Essentially, this happens when your gum tissue starts to pull away from the tooth to expose the root. Bacteria can easily build up in there, leading to decay and inflammation.

A common cause of receding gums is brushing too hard over a period of many years, but the most common cause of receding gums is periodontal disease (AKA gum disease). The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis, and it is a result of plaque and tartar build up that can irritate the gums. The most severe form of gum disease is periodontitis, which can cause loss of teeth if not addressed.

Other factors can put older adults at an increased risk for periodontal disease, such as:

  • Failure to brush and floss every day
  • Failure to engage in regular dental care
  • Smoking
  • Dry mouth
  • Diabetes
  • Weakened immune system

Cavities

Cavities are caused by bacteria that can stick to your teeth; every time you eat or drink, you feed this bacteria, which then converts sugars and starches from food into acid. Cavities form when that acid attacks tooth enamel. According to the CDC, almost all adults (96 percent) age 65 years or older have had a cavity, and one in six adults age 65 years or older have untreated cavities.

Due to the fact that colder adults are more likely to have receding gums, cavities tend to develop at the root of the tooth. Cavities can also form as a result of dry mouth and lack of saliva.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is more common in older adults and twice as common in males as in females. The most common causes of oral cancer originate from smoking and tobacco use, as well as excessive alcohol consumption coupled with smoking.

Other factors include:

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • Poor dental hygiene
  • Immunosuppressant medication
  • Long-term rubbing from rough teeth, fillings, or dentures

Protecting Your Teeth and Gums

People, young and old, have to take good care of their teeth no matter what. Keeping teeth and gums healthy throughout life will ensure optimal oral health as we age.

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • Floss once a day or more.
  • Visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
  • Avoid sweets and high-sugar beverages.
  • Refrain from smoking or using tobacco.
  • Talk to your doctor if medications you are taking are causing dry mouth; you may be able to switch.

Book an Appointment With Ashby Dental in Elmwood

If you’re concerned about dental changes as you get older, we welcome you to speak with your dentist about these concerns at your next visit. To find out more, book an appointment with Ashby Dental in Elmwood today at (510) 549-0133.