Elderly dental care: Why it matters

Many changes happen to the body with aging, but one thing will always stay the same: the importance of good oral hygiene. In the golden years, a lot of things will occur but oral health care will need to be even more important to maintain the health of the smile.

Elderly dental care

Patients of all ages need to visit their dentist regularly, preferably twice a year. During this time, the dentists will perform an evaluation which may include dental x-rays. This allows the dentist to look at the health of the teeth and bone beyond what can be seen physically. Patients over the age of 65 may have other coexisting chronic health conditions, and may be at a higher risk of developing dry mouth and gum disease. These risks make it more important than ever to take good care of the smile with routine visits and cleanings paired with proper home health habits.

Additionally, if patients are experiencing problems such as tooth loss, dentures may be considered. Dentures, including full and partial dentures, are used to replace missing teeth to keep the existing teeth from shifting. They help restore functionality, ensuring patients can chew their food for proper digestion. When created by an experienced dentist, they will look natural and fit properly, reducing the risk of sores, discomfort, and shifting.

Increased risks of periodontal disease

Conditions that are often related to aging, including dry mouth and gum recession, and make it necessary for patients to take a closer look at their oral hygiene habits. Periodontal disease is a common condition that can develop in the golden years, especially if dry mouth occurs and reduces natural saliva production. This makes it vital that patients brush and floss their teeth as needed to avoid the development of this condition. Once periodontal disease develops, it can only be controlled, not reversed, so prevention is key.

Find out how to keep your smile healthy for a lifetime with proper care

Contact Montefiore Medical Center today at (888) 700-6623 to book a consultation visit with our staff. We are committed to offering the best care possible for new and current patients in the community.