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The truth is that your natural teeth can last a lifetime as long as you stick to regular dental checkups and good oral care. No matter how old you are, you can keep your mouth and teeth healthy by brushing at least twice every day and flossing daily.
But, research shows that as you age, you may be prone to a wide range of oral problems. And the sad thing is that poor oral care for senior citizens affects not only their oral health but also a wide range of their bodily functions such as the immune system, weight, and appetite.
Poor oral health is a growing concern among senior citizens in Canada. Here are some of the oral concerns that are common among seniors.
Gum Disease
A significant number of older individuals have gum or periodontal disease that occurs as a result of bacteria buildup in the gums which causes them to swell, and bleed. One reason why gum disease is common among seniors is that it starts as a painless condition.
If gum disease is left untreated, the patient’s gums may start to pull away from the teeth and form deepened spaces commonly referred to as “pockets” where food particles and more bacteria may collect.
Advanced periodontal disease can easily destroy the entire gums and the jawbone that support your teeth leading to tooth loss. However, the good news is that, with regular dentist Laval visits, gum disease can be prevented or treated before it becomes severe.
Dental Caries
First, you need to understand the fact that dental caries can occur at any age. However, older people are at a higher risk of developing root caries due to periodontitis and gingival recession that they experience.
Research shows that the prevalence of root caries in people older than 60 years is more than twice that of 30-year olds. More than 65% of persons older than 80 years have root caries, and up to 95% of them have coronal caries.
Other risk factors for dental caries include; lack of routine dental care, history of caries, poor oral hygiene, and decreased salivary flow rates.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can also be a significant problem as you age. Your gums naturally recede over time which exposes the sensitive areas of your teeth that aren’t protected by the enamel.
The exposed areas become more prone to pain due to cold or hot foods and drinks. In severe cases, your teeth may become sensitive to cold air, sour and sweet foods or beverages.
You can remedy this situation by visiting a dentist Laval office since the sensitivity may be a sign of a more serious oral condition such as a cracked/fractured tooth or a cavity.
Dry Mouth
Senior citizens may also be required to take medication that can cause severe dryness in their mouth. Without sufficient saliva flow, these people become more prone to tooth decay and cavities.
If you discover that you are experiencing dryness in your mouth after taking certain medications, be sure to read over the drug’s side effects and if possible consult your doctor. You should also consider drinking a lot of water to stay hydrated.
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