Growing old does not mean losing your teeth
As we get older, the risk of problems associated with dental health increases. Age itself is not necessarily the predominant factor, but other medical conditions, medications, and things like arthritis in the hands can make maintaining oral hygiene more challenging and important. That’s why dental care elderly and visiting a pain free dentist regularly is essential.
In fact, some of the most common health problems experienced by older adults are related to the health of gums and teeth. Consulting a dentist in Moss Vale or nearby Moss Vale dental clinic can help prevent these issues.
These problems can include:
Darkened teeth
Reduced enamel over the years, combined with foods, drinks, and life-long habits like smoking, can cause staining and darkening of teeth. The protective outer coating of the tooth – enamel – thins over time, revealing the darker dentin underneath. A pain free dental clinic can offer solutions like professional cleaning and whitening.
Tooth and root decay
Older Australians with natural teeth tend to experience more decay, which can extend to the roots not protected by enamel. Gums naturally recede with age, increasing the risk of cavities, infection, and tooth loss. Regular visits to a dentist Southern Highlands or dentist Bowral can help catch problems early.
Gum disease
The older our teeth are, the more they are worn and the longer they have been exposed to decay-causing plaque and food debris, tobacco smoke, poor diets, ill-fitting dentures, and also diseases like anemia and diabetes.
Dry mouth
Older people can commonly produce less saliva, either naturally or because of medications or other health conditions. Saliva naturally protects our mouths from bacteria and also nourishes teeth with protective minerals, whilst flushing the mouth of food, drink and other debris. Dry mouth can therefore lead to more decay.
Stomatitis
Poor-fitting or badly maintained dentures can lead to stomatitis, causing pain, difficulty eating, and poor sleep. Consulting a pain free dentist ensures dentures fit correctly, improving quality of life, nutrition, and overall health. For tips on caring for dentures, check our 9 tips for caring dentures guide.
Maintain routines
Good dental health routines are crucial throughout life, especially as memory or dexterity declines. Use fluoride toothpaste, clean dentures after meals, and schedule regular checkups every six months at a pain free dental clinic or local Moss Vale dental clinic. For proper brushing techniques, see our Brushing Round Round article.
Regular checks
Many older Australians may be unaware of discounts, cost caps and even free public dental services for general and specialist dental care, including dentures, that are available to them. These discounts vary from State to State across Australia so it’s worth doing some research first.
Eat and drink well
Just as the rest of our bodies need to be well nourished by a good and balanced diet, the same goes for our teeth and gums. Sugary soft drinks should be avoided, while Australian tap water contains fluoride specifically to help prevent tooth decay.
For all dental treatments and care especially for the elderly, please contact Pain Free Dental Contact (02) 4868 1933.
