Aging is inevitable, tooth loss is not! Maintaining healthy teeth and gums can help you keep your teeth for life!
Not so long ago, it was rare for an older person to go to bed without taking out his or her dentures. However, tooth loss has been declining in this country since the 1950s. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 25% of the current population over age 65 have lost their teeth. People who are missing teeth or wearing dentures may suffer from poor nutrition, because they choose soft, easily-chewed foods instead of foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in older adults.“However, people should realize that while their likelihood of developing periodontal disease does increase with age, maintaining periodontal health can help you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime,” says Dr. Dani Weichholz, a US Board Certified and trained periodontist serving patients in Beit Shemesh. “Not everyone can avoid the signs of aging, such as wrinkles or the need for bifocals, but periodontal disease can often be prevented.”
A variety of risk factors make older individuals especially susceptible to periodontal disease, especially the presence of other diseases. Research has shown a connection between periodontal disease and other inflammatory diseases of aging, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease. Other factors that may influence the progression of gum disease include medications, mental health, worsening memory, diminished salivary flow and functional impairments.
“To help prevent periodontal disease and maintain a healthy, toothy smile as you age, it is important to keep your dental professional up to date on any changes in your overall health,” said Dr. Weichholz. “The goal is to make adjustments in oral care before these changes result in full-blown problems in the mouth.”
Dr. Weichholz recommends comprehensive daily oral care, including regular brushing and flossing, and routine visits to the dentist to avoid gum disease. If gum disease develops, a consultation with a dental professional, such as a periodontist, can lead to effective treatment. A periodontist is a dentist with three years of additional specialized training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.
For more information on preventing periodontal disease in older adults, visit perio.org or contact us using the form below!