Oral Health Program

Description

What Oral Health Problems Could Arise as an Older Adult?

Dry mouth:  Certain medications to treat chronic conditions like heart disease and other illnesses, and radiation treatment in the head and neck areas for cancer, may reduce saliva flow making one’s mouth susceptible to dental caries.

 

Root decay:  Root decay or root caries are common with seniors largely because the older you get, the more likely you are to have receding gums and exposed roots.

Gum disease:  Also known gingivitis.  Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that causes gums to become swollen.  If gingivitis is ignored and left untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease which is a severe gum disease that can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, causing teeth to fall out and making it difficult to speak and chew.

Tooth loss:  Tooth enamel tends to deteriorate with aging, making the teeth vulnerable to damage and decay, causing teeth to loosen and fall out.

Older adults/Seniors can keep your mouth healthy by:

• Brushing at least twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste
• Flossing at least once a day
• Using a fluoridated mouth rinse once or twice a day
• Visiting your dentist regularly for cleaning and an oral exam
• Choosing water over sugary drinks

 

Learn more about oral health and older adults.

Need help finding a dentist, visit Find A Dentist or call 1-800-322-6384  or 2-1-1.

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