As we age, we may encounter different problems with our teeth just like we do with our bodies. In fact tooth loss is more prevalent in older people than it is in younger people and statistics show that by the age of seventy-four-years-old, up to twenty-six percent of Americans will have lost all of their permanent teeth.

There are a lot of reasons behind those statistics, and increased dental issues in older people are often the result of one or several of the following:

– Receding gum tissue which exposes the tooth root leaving it vulnerable to decay.

– Dry mouth (also known as xerostomia – pronounced ZEER-oh-STOH-mee-ah) is caused by an inadequate flow of saliva which leaves teeth more vulnerable to decay and gum tissue more susceptible to periodontal disease.

– A lack of good oral hygiene which may be the result of stiffness or arthritis in the hands making brushing and flossing more difficult.

– Medications which can contribute to xerostomia.

– Hormonal changes can lead to susceptibility to gum inflammations and infections.

– Certain illnesses like diabetes can lead to more cavities.

However, armed with knowledge and a good relationship with a dentist, aging does not have to mean losing your teeth or having poor dental health. For every problem, there is a solution:

– If gum recession is an issue, a dentist can perform a soft tissue graft which will result in the gum tissue once again snuggling up against the tooth and protecting the vulnerable root.

– Dry mouth can be corrected by: using sugar-free gum or candy to stimulate the flow of saliva in your mouth; taking frequent sips of water; cutting back on alcohol, carbonated drinks or caffeine; and only using mouth washes or rinses that are alcohol-free.

– If brushing and flossing have become difficult, try switching to a battery-operated toothbrush and using interdental flossers which hold the dental floss for you or switch to an automatic flosser which actually does the work.

– For medications, hormonal changes and illnesses that can lead to oral health problems, see your dentist regularly so that any dental issues that surface can be immediately treated, thus preventing large issues which lead to tooth loss.

If tooth loss has already occurred for you, dental implants can replace your missing tooth (or teeth) and the implanted titanium screw will stimulate the gum tissue and bone the same as a tooth root does, helping your mouth retain its natural health. If you already wear dentures, dental implants can help keep them secure so that they look, feel and function like natural teeth. Even if bone loss has occurred, ridge modification and bone graft procedures can often restore the bone and tissue structure that is needed to support a dental implant.

Even though dental issues do become more prevalent as we age and having a close relationship with a dentist becomes more important, poor dental health or problems with our teeth and gums do not have to be a part of the aging process.

Author Bio: After graduating as a DMD in 1988 Dr. Vito Clarizio started his own practice in Whitestone, NY and has been in private practice here for over 20 years. He is loved by both his patients and his staff. His core staff has been with him since the beginning of the practice.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: denal care, dental comfort, dental problems, tooth sensitivity, teeth and aging