Oral Health Care for Seniors and the Disabled

Because the natural aging process comes with myriad challenges regarding mobility and fine motor dexterity, senior citizens must be especially judicious when it comes to their oral health plan. Paying close attention to how certain medical and mental conditions as well as the effects some medications can have on your teeth and gums is especially important. We understand that maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine can be difficult for some dependent or semi-dependent adults. That's why we encourage a habit of regular dental check-ups, a good at-home oral health care plan, and effective communication about the unique needs of our elderly patients. Because some chronic or acute illnesses or diseases may compromise overall health, taking care of your mouth is especially important if you're a more mature patient. For example, some illnesses or medications may contribute to xerostomia (dry mouth) because they decrease the amount of saliva. Decreased saliva flow may then lead to halitosis (bad breath), tooth decay, gum disease, oral infections, or systemic diseases of the body. Some medications that can adversely affect oral health include antihistamines, diuretics, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, and antidepressants. All of these commonly prescribed medications can cause side effects such as dry mouth, soft tissue changes, changes in taste, and gingival overgrowth. Make sure to inform your dentist and other dental professionals of any medications that you are taking, including herbal remedies and over-the-counter medications.

In the 21st century, people are living longer and healthier lives. Today, older adults are more likely to keep their teeth for their entire lifetime than they were just a decade ago. However, studies show that older adults have the highest rates of periodontal disease, which means they must be more willing to maintain a good oral health program.

Here are some startling facts about older adults and oral health.

Why is a good oral maintenance plan important in late life?

Good oral health is essential to your quality of life and being able to enjoy the activities (and the food!) you enjoy. Maintaining adequate oral health ensures proper chewing and digestion of your food, which leads to better nutrition and more energy to do the things you enjoy most. Here are some factors to keep in mind.
  • Every tooth in your mouth plays an important role in speaking, chewing, and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth as well as the integrity and function of your jaw.
  • People with periodontal disease have a higher risk of failed joint replacement because infections of the mouth can travel to the replacement surgery site.  
  • People with dentures or loose and missing teeth often have restricted diets since biting into hard foods is difficult and often painful, so proper nutrition is compromised.
  • Most men and women age 65 and older report that an attractive smile is very important to a person's appearance and level of confidence in social situations.
  • Periodontal disease has been linked to a number of major health concerns such as heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease and diabetes.
Whatever your age, it's important to keep your mouth clean, healthy, and feeling good.To learn more about the effects of some medications and illnesses on dental and oral health, please contact us. We'll be happy to chat with you about how to maintain good oral health and a beautiful smile for many more years to come!

Special Concerns for Older Women

Many of our female patients report changes in their mouth during the menopausal or post-menopausal years, including dry mouth, pain and burning sensations in the gum tissue and altered taste, especially salty, peppery, or sour. Changes in taste, saliva production, and overall oral health are normal responses to changes in hormone levels during midlife. In fact, some studies suggest that a deficiency of the hormone estrogen could place post-menopausal women at higher risk for severe periodontal disease and tooth loss. Bone loss is also associated with periodontal disease and osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to lose density, which could affect the jawbones and their ability to hold teeth in place.
More research is needed in this area to determine the exact relationship between periodontal disease and osteoporosis, however many women report a lessening of symptoms with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We recommend that our mature women patientsconsult their physician if they are experiencing symptoms such as those mentioned above. However, we would be happy to speak with you about treatments options as well!