While maintaining proper oral health is important at any age, older people face increased challenges to their oral health. Seniors develop an increased risk of periodontal disease and other dental-related issues, making routine care and regular dental visits critical.

In this article, we will discuss some of the risks and challenges seniors face to their oral health, while also providing our top tips and strategies for maintaining a healthy, natural smile as you age. 

Tip 1: Understand how Aging Impacts Oral Health

Before you can begin taking any preventive measures, you’ll first need to understand how aging impacts your overall oral health. Here are a few things that happen to your mouth as you age. 

Changes in Gum and Bone Structure

As you enter into your older years, your gum and bone structure alters. Gums may recede, which can make teeth more sensitive, including to hot and cold foods and liquids. Jawbones also experience density loss, which affects tooth stability. Osteoporosis can affect jaw strength, making teeth more prone to fractures and dislodgement. 

Increased Prevalence of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can be caused by reduced saliva flow that often occurs for older people due to medications being taken or other health conditions. Dry mouth can lead to increased tooth decay over time, as saliva is critical in protecting teeth and neutralizing acids. 

According to the American Dental Association, 30% of patients over 65, and 40% of patients over 80 suffer from xerostomia. 

Increased Risk of Certain Dental Issues

Tooth loss is highly prevalent among seniors. According to the National Library of Medicine, 19% of seniors have no more permanent teeth.

Older adults may experience more cavities at the gum line, which are more difficult to treat as you age. Periodontal disease progression can also set in quickly if not managed properly, which can lead to loss of teeth. 

Tip 2: Maintain a Proper Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

While good oral hygiene is important at any age, it is especially paramount for seniors who are at increased risk of several dental issues. Here are some ways you can ensure you’re staying on top of your oral health. 

Proper Brushing Technique

Brush your teeth at least twice per day using a soft-bristle or electric toothbrush. Use a fluoride toothpaste, or consider specialized formulas if you have particularly sensitive teeth. 

Flossing and Cleaning Between the Teeth

Floss at least once per day. Flossing is critical for removing plaque that a brush can’t reach, especially around receding gum lines. If flossing is a struggle, there are also effective alternatives such as water flossers or interdental brushes that are effective for removing plaque and loose food particles. 

Managing Dry Mouth

As mentioned, certain medications or other health conditions, along with poor oral hygiene, can be the cause of dry mouth. To help manage and prevent dry mouth, stay hydrated, and drink water frequently throughout the day. Consider chewing sugar-free gum or lozenges to help stimulate saliva production in your mouth. Certain mouthwashes or rinses are also specially formulated for dry mouth relief. 

Tip 3: Support Oral Hygiene with Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and managing medication can also help seniors improve their oral health.

Balanced Diet and Nutrition

Seniors concerned about oral health should limit their intake of sugary snacks and acidic drinks, as this can speed up tooth decay. While sugary drinks can have a negative impact on teeth at any age, they are particularly harmful for older adults. 

Instead, take in a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods, and stick to drinking mostly water. This can help strengthen teeth and gums and promote overall oral health. 

Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol

In addition to being a leading cause of lung cancer, smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. The CDC notes that senior smokers are three times as likely to lose all of their teeth as non-smokers, with over 40% of smokers over 65 having no natural teeth remaining. 

Medication Management

Seniors are often tasked with taking more medications and prescriptions to maintain their overall health. However, these medications can often cause side effects that affect oral health, such as dry mouth. Talk to your healthcare provider about possible alternatives if you are experiencing dry mouth or other oral issues related to a medication you’re taking. 

Tip 4: Attend Regular Dental Checkups and Screenings

Regular checkups with a dentist become even more important as you age. Dentists can not only perform cleanings and check for cavities, but they can also make an early detection if there are significant issues that could affect your oral health, and help begin treatment before the problem worsens. 

Importance of Routine Visits

Even thorough brushers and flossers can miss some spots. Regular visits to the dentist can help remove any excess plaque and tartar that has built up. Additionally, dentists can look out for early detection of cavities, gum disease, tooth wear, or signs of oral cancer. 

Communication With Your Dentist

Face-to-face meetings with a dental professional also provides an opportunity to inform them about any medical conditions, medications, or recent health changes you may be experiencing. Your dentist can then work with you to develop a comprehensive plan and routine to maintain your oral health, as well as prescribe any additional products or treatments that can help.

Tip 5: Properly Care for Your Dentures and Implants

Seniors are much more likely to need dentures or implants than younger adults. However, these teeth replacements need proper oral care, just like natural teeth,  to remain effective. Here are some things you can do to keep your dentures and implants in top condition. 

Tips on Maintaining Dentures

• Properly store your dentures when not in use. 
• Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush. 
• Soak dentures in a denture-cleaning solution to prevent drying out.
• Handle your dentures with care as they can break easily. 
• Remove and rinse your dentures after eating a meal. 
• Re-fit your dentures if they become loose or uncomfortable 

Tips on Caring for Implants

• Brush and floss around implants to avoid peri-implantitis. 
• Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste and brush implants twice per day.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods such as candy, ice chips, or gum.
• Attend regular checkups with a dental professional to ensure implants remain stable and healthy. 

Tip 6: Recognize Potential Warning Signs of Oral Health Issues

A dental professional can help notice any warning signs of oral health issues during a checkup. However, in between visits, you will need to be on the lookout for any warning signs of potential cavities, gum disease, or more serious issues like cancer. Here are some warning signs to look out for.

Persistent Pain or Sensitivity

If you notice pain or sensitivity when brushing, flossing, chewing, or swallowing that lasts for several days, that could be a signal of an abscess, tooth infection, or advanced gum disease. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible so a professional can check for severe infections. If you’re unsure if the pain rises to the level of needing professional care, it’s always better to be safe and check with a dentist, as it still may be an early sign of an underlying issue. 

Changes in Bite or Tooth Mobility

If you notice any substantial changes in your bite alignment or any loose or shifting teeth in your mouth, it may be a sign of bone loss or advanced gum disease. Prompt care from a professional can prevent further damage and may help you save your tooth. 

Time for a Checkup? Visit Your Local Ideal Dental

While seniors do face an increased risk of dental disease — proper oral hygiene, regular checkups, and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can greatly reduce the likelihood of oral health issues. Staying proactive and prioritizing dental needs can support your overall health and well-being as you age. Contact Ideal Dental today to set up your next appointment with a dental professional.