As we grow older, our risk of developing oral diseases may increase. By the time you are a senior citizen, your teeth have been through several years of wear and tear. Medical conditions and medications may add to your declining oral health.
Dental issues among seniors may cause toothache, bleeding gums, inflamed gums, or gum infection. Here are some of the common dental problems that older adults may be prone to:
Darkened Teeth
Dark teeth are primarily caused by alterations in the dentin, which is a bone-like tissue beneath the enamel. The main reason for damage to the dentin is the consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages during your lifetime. This condition is also a result of a thinning enamel, which exposes the yellower dentin underneath.
Dry Mouth
Reduced saliva production may result in a dry mouth. A decrease in saliva flow may be caused by cancer treatments that involve radiation to the head and neck, particular diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, or medication side effects.
Root Decay
This happens when the root of the tooth is exposed to decay-causing acids. As the gum recedes from the tooth, the roots become more vulnerable to decay. The roots do not have a protective covering like the teeth and are therefore at an increased risk of decay as compared to the crown of the tooth.
Gum Disease
When a layer of plaque forms over your teeth and gums, bacteria grow in it and cause gum disease. The condition is worsened by leftover food particles in the teeth, tobacco consumption, ill-fitting bridges and dentures, poor diet, and diseases such as cancer anemia and diabetes.
Other common oral health issues among seniors include a diminished sense of taste, uneven jawbone, thrush, and denture-induced stomatitis. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to a dental issue, schedule an appointment with us at Lincoln Center Smiles by calling us at (503) 598-0898 today.
Dentist Tigard, OR | Dental Blog - Lincoln Center Smiles Dr. Saklofsky has created an educational blog as a resource for our patients. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please share it to social media, then call (971) 317-9499 to make an appointment. Lincoln Center Smiles, 10500 SW Greenburg Rd, Suite 3, Portland, OR 97223-1406; (503) 598-0898; sakdental.com; 12/8/2024; Key Phrases: dentist Tigard OR;
As we grow older, our risk of developing oral diseases may increase. By the time you are a senior citizen, your teeth have been through several years of wear and tear. Medical conditions and medications may add to your declining oral health.