Older adults: Oral hygiene

 

We are keeping our teeth longer than before, however because of that, new dental problems have arisen which need to be noted:

 

• Dry mouth: this can be due to illness, medications and aging. Saliva prevents tooth decay, hence a reduction will increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease and occurrences of ulcerations and traumatic lesions due to reduced lubrication. The use of saliva inducing toothpaste, fluoride rinses all can help. Seek our advice for more information.

 

• Recession: when the tooth appears longer and the gum shrinks back away from the tooth. This leads to problems such as sensitivity, aesthetics, root decay, and food impaction in between teeth 'black triangles

 

• Wearing away of teeth: This can be due to aggressive brushing or grinding/clenching habits. All which can be managed.

 

• Denture problems: Just as you age, your mouth ages and goes through changes. Hence it is important to get your denture checked regularly aswell as your teeth and gums to ensure that it fits well and problems can be picked up early and managed

 

Tooth loss and gum disease is not an inevitable part of the ageing process. If you brush and floss your teeth every day, you can keep your teeth for the rest of your life!