6 Common Dental Problems in Older People

As you become older, teeth begin to wear and tear. At the same time, your immune system becomes weaker. This leads to a series of dental problems requiring a dentist's immediate attention.

Here are common dental problems that come with old age. 

1. Dry Mouth

Low amounts of saliva can cause a dry mouth. The problem might be due to the use of various medications. 

When you have a dry mouth, plaque and bacteria will start to accumulate in the mouth. The dry environment is also ideal for diseases and germs to spread and multiply. Failure to tackle the issue may boost your risk of cavities. 

Some people with dry mouths may also have bad breath. Fortunately, you can avoid or treat dry mouth problems regardless of your age. 

2. Receding Gums

As you become older, the gums become less elastic and start to recede. Receding gums increase the sensitivity of the teeth and can cause discomfort.

Also, receding gums expose the root of the teeth, making the tooth more porous and softer than usual. The exposure increases the likelihood of tooth cavities, especially if you don't regularly brush and floss.

3. Toothache

Dementia and Alzheimer's are common conditions that tend to happen as people age. People living with these conditions can forget to brush their teeth regularly. Lack of regular teeth brushing causes food particles to accumulate on the outer layers of the teeth and break down the enamel. This will cost frequent toothaches that are especially severe in older people.

If a person has dementia, they may not inform their loved ones or the caregiver of the ongoing pain. In some cases, the patient may not know the location of the toothache. Instead, the patient will refuse to eat or keep holding one side of their face. Others will wince when brushing their teeth.

4. Gum Disease

Elderly people tend to use specific medicines like medication for heart conditions and antidepressants. However, the medications can lead to gum disease. Gum disease can also occur if your diet lacks essential minerals like Vitamin C.

The onset of menopause may also cause hormonal dysregulation in the body. The hormonal imbalances may lead to a painful type of gum disease referred to

as desquamative gingivitis.

You can also get gum disease if you regularly consume alcohol and smoke tobacco. Smoking, in particular, can lead to a severe form of gum condition called periodontal disease.

Some conditions, like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, can interfere with the inflammatory response of the body. Abnormal inflammatory responses may cause oral health problems such as gum disease.

5. Oral Sores

Oral sores are among the worst form of dental problems in older adults. As you get older, the risk of oral sores increases. Failure to treat oral sores in time may lead to oral cancer. Hence, see a dentist immediately if the color of the skin inside the mouth changes or if mouth ulcers are persistent. 

Oral sores can also lead to anorexia. The condition occurs when mouth sores prevent the elderly from eating enough food. Improper feeding causes loss of weight and acute weakness.

6. Tooth or Crown Loss

Teeth lost after childhood will not grow back. Many factors can lead to teeth loss, but older people usually lose teeth because of inflammation. Fortunately, you can use dentures to substitute the lost teeth. But if the denture is loose, you will experience speech and aesthetics issues.

If you have dental problems, the best move is to see a dentist immediately. Airport Road Dental Associates, PC, provides general dentistry services to people of all ages. Contact us to book an appointment.