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Never neglect your mouth, teeth and gums
No part of your body is immune to aging — including your mouth, teeth and gums. In fact, the risk for some oral health problems increases with age, particular- ly if you are taking multiple medications or have developed chronic diseases such as diabetes, which can affect the gums. Regular dental checkups and good dental hygiene, therefore, become more important than ever. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), oral health condi- tions associated with aging include dry mouth (also known as xerostomia), root and tooth decay, periodontitis (a serious gum infection) and increased sensitiv- ity to some of the medications used in dental care, such as anesthetics.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth affects 30 percent of patients older than 65 and 40 percent of patients over the age of 80. The ADA notes that this is often due to side effects from medications, particularly if the patient is taking four or more drugs. However, it can also be associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. Dry mouth can also cause other
problems. It can lead to mucositis, characterized by pain and inflammation of the lining that covers the mouth. It can increase the risk for cavities. And it can contribute to cracked lips and fissures on the tongue. Dry mouth can be treated by sipping water throughout the day and avoiding beverages high in sugar or caffeine. Over-the-counter saliva substitutes and oral rinses may help as well.
Root/Tooth Decay
Root decay is more common in older adults because of gum recession that can expose root surfaces and leave them vulnerable. Dry mouth also con- tributes to root decay. Roughly half of people aged 75 and older have issues with cavities in the roots of at least one tooth, according to the ADA. The ADA recommends good oral hygiene, including the use of oscillat- ing toothbrushes and topical fluorides (such as daily mouth rinses) as a means of prevention. Dental experts also recommend avoiding sugary foods and brushing immediately after eating soft, starchy foods — such as bread, potatoes and pasta —which are more likely to stick to teeth.
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