As we age, taking care of our oral health becomes increasingly important. Since seniors have a higher risk of dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay, getting regular checkups is essential to keeping your smile beautiful and healthy as you get up in years.
What are some of the most common dental treatments seniors get? Here we outline a few common dental treatments you may need as you get older and require extra care to protect and enhance your smile.
Treatment for Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common condition among seniors that can lead to difficulty speaking, swallowing, and even tooth decay.
There are several treatments that may alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth. First, it’s important to address any potential underlying causes, such as medication side effects or medical conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome.
Other treatments may include using mouth rinses, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, using a humidifier at night, and avoiding certain foods and beverages that can exacerbate dry mouth symptoms, such as caffeine and alcohol.
Additionally, some medications may be prescribed to stimulate saliva production and relieve dry mouth discomfort [1]. It’s important for seniors with dry mouth to work closely with their dentist or healthcare provider to develop an effective treatment plan that addresses their individual needs.
Addressing Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is common among seniors, especially those over 65 [2]. There are several factors that can contribute to tooth loss, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, smoking, and medical conditions like diabetes.
The consequences of tooth loss can include difficulty eating and speaking, as well as social and emotional impacts like low self-esteem and reduced quality of life. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to seniors who have experienced tooth loss, including dental implants, dentures, and bridges.
In addition to restoring appearance and function, these treatments can help preserve bone density and prevent further tooth loss.
Periodontal (Gum) Therapy
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common dental problem in seniors that can lead to bone and tooth loss that can have a long-term impact on oral health [3].
Fortunately, several gum disease treatment options are available for older individuals experiencing symptoms, including deep cleanings, root scaling and planing, antibiotics, and surgery in severe cases.
Seniors can and should take important steps to prevent gum disease by maintaining good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing daily, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular dental checkups.
Restorative Treatments
Our teeth can become more susceptible to damage and decay due to wear and tear as we age. Seniors commonly get restorative dental procedures to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth.
These procedures include dental implants, dentures, bridges, and crowns. Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth because they provide a durable, long-term solution that mimics the look and feel of natural teeth.
Dentures and bridges are also effective in replacing missing teeth and can be customized to match the appearance of your smile. Crowns can be used to protect and strengthen damaged teeth, while fillings and root canals can address decay and infection.
Take the Best Care of Your Smile in Your Golden Years
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping up with your oral care, and getting regular dental checkups, you can maintain optimal oral health and function and enjoy a beautiful smile at any age. And should you need to restore or enhance your smile, your dentist can work with you to develop the right treatment plan based on your individual needs!
Sources:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/diagnosis-treatment/drc-
20356052
2. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/adult_older.htm
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8771712/