Getting older sometimes involves health challenges. While we can’t control certain problems due to the natural aging process and unforeseen circumstances, many conditions can be prevented by being proactive with preventative care. Some of the most preventable conditions involve the mouth.
Geriatric Dentistry
Dr. Karen Becerra of Gary and Mary West Senior Dental Center, a state-of-the-art facility catered to senior citizens with a wheelchair-accessible dental platform, discusses the hidden dental health crisis for senior citizens in her Times of San Diego article. She notes the following statistics:1 in 5 seniors over the age of 65 have no teeth, 2 in 3 have gum disease, and 1 in 5 have untreated cavities.
Senior Problems
Dental problems can strike at any age; however, they tend to increase as we get older and overlap with other health problems. Gum disease is one of the most prominent oral health problems linked to a variety of health conditions. Research points to a direct link between poor oral health and the following conditions.
Dementia: Recent studies show an increased risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease for those suffering from gum disease. The connection is related to particular bacteria that travels from the mouth to the brain.
Heart Disease: Bacteria (particularly from gum disease) can travel from the mouth into the bloodstream and affect the heart by causing inflammation. This can also cause endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart.
Malnutrition: Appetite often decreases with old age. Also, many senior citizens are missing teeth and unable to eat a well-balanced diet of nutritious foods to fuel their bodies.
Medications: A large percentage of older adults take over-the-counter and prescription medications that can affect the mouth. Dry mouth is a common side effect, which increases the risk of tooth decay.
Respiratory Problems: Elderly people are susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, which is often tough to recover from. Pneumonia can be caused by inhaling bacterial droplets from the mouth into the lungs.
Tips for Healthy Mouths
Senior citizens should take extra precautions to keep their oral health in check. This involves the basics of oral health care – brushing and flossing as well as regular trips to the dentist. Problems such as arthritis and dementia can make basic tasks difficult. People with arthritis may struggle with their motor skills, making it difficult to properly brush and floss. Dementia causes forgetfulness, which leads to memory loss and lack of proper hygiene.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding dentistry for senior citizens, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.