Introduction – Dental Problem in old age
For most people, getting old seems unreal. Even though you may think and feel like a teenager, your face, dental health, and body will show natural signs of your age. Experienced endodontist says it is essential to maintain oral hygiene as neglecting may become a root cause of many health-related issues.
As we age, we tend to encounter more health problems. Research shows that elderly patients tend to pay less attention to oral hygiene, either for limited capacity or other reasons. The elderly must have someone to remind them of the importance of oral health. If not, the dental care at antwerpen will responsibly take care of your teeth.
Common Dental Problems in Senior Citizens
- The most common dental problems associated with old age generally include dry mouth, tooth discoloration, and gum disease. However, if elderly patients do not take good care of their teeth, they are prone to diabetes and heart disease.
- Dry mouth results from certain medications and radiation therapy (i.e., cancer treatment) to the head. Saliva always keeps the mouth moist, prevents cavities, and prevents infections. In the long run, dry mouth can cause more problems.
- Gum disease is another problem that often affects the elderly. Gum disease is a severe disease related to many physical problems, including diabetes and heart disease.
- Jaws help define the face and provide a stable surface on which the teeth fix. Studies have shown that over time, the jaw shrinks, causing crowded teeth in the elderly population. However, the chin is not the only part of the body that is affected by aging.
- As we age, every organ changes, from the hair follicle to the tooth. Due to the shrinking chin and decreased skin elasticity, even a person’s smile can be different in old age.
However, a person’s age is not the only factor that determines oral health. Certain conditions, such as arthritis of the hand, can make brushing or flossing difficult. Medications can also affect oral health and can cause changes in necessary dental treatment.
Why is Dental Care important after the age of 60?
1) Dental Plaque
Plaque caused by bacteria can damage tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. One of the reasons the elderly have a higher risk of tooth decay is dry mouth. Saliva helps protect teeth and reduce bacteria, but dry mouth is a side effect of certain medications that older people often take, such as depression, asthma, and high blood pressure.
2) Tooth loss
It is common in the elderly. Loss of teeth affects nutrition because older people with missing teeth may not eat or enjoy fresh food, such as fruits and vegetables.
3) Heart disease
Gum disease can worsen certain heart diseases and may be associated with an increased risk of stroke.
4) Pneumonia
Older people with poor dental hygiene, especially smokers, have an increased risk of bacterial pneumonia. This is because when someone breathes, bacteria in the mouth can spread to the lungs. Maintaining good oral hygiene for the elderly who cannot take care of themselves can help reduce this type of pneumonia.
5) Oral cancer
The elderly have a higher risk of oral cancer. People who chew tobacco or smoke cigarettes, pipes, or cigars are at higher risk.
We have an idea of how difficult it can be to take care of your oral health when you cross your 60s. You can consult our experts at the best dental implant clinic in antwerpen and live without worries!
