Oral health concerns as we age
Maintaining our oral health becomes increasingly important as we age – but also more challenging.
Many older adults face common dental concerns that, if left untreated, can lead to significant health problems. At Staina House Dental Practice, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile throughout every stage of your life, providing personalised care and advanced treatments.
Let’s take a look at the most common oral health issues faced by older adults and how our experienced team can help you manage them.
Dry mouth
Dry mouth is a common issue among older adults, characterised by a lack of sufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is crucial for various functions, including aiding digestion and preventing tooth decay. It also helps to control bacteria in the mouth.
Several factors contribute to dry mouth with age, such as:
- Medications. Many common medications, such as those for high blood pressure and depression, can reduce saliva production.
- Medical conditions. Some medical conditions like diabetes and Parkinson’s disease can also lead to dry mouth.
- Cancer treatments. Radiation therapy to the head and neck can damage saliva glands, leading to reduced saliva production.
The impact of dry mouth
A dry mouth can significantly impact oral health. It increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, causes discomfort and can make it difficult to eat, speak, chew and swallow.
Simple steps for reducing dry mouth include drinking more water and chewing sugar-free gum. However, if you are experiencing persistent dry mouth, it’s important to visit our practice in Garstang so that we can help you manage it effectively.
Receding gums
Receding gums are another oral health issue that becomes more common as we age. They occur when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This condition can lead to serious dental problems if not addressed promptly.
Several factors can contribute to gum recession:
- Periodontal diseases. Bacterial gum infections can destroy gum tissue and the bone supporting the teeth.
- Genetics. Some individuals are more susceptible to gum disease due to their genetics.
- Aggressive brushing. Brushing your teeth too hard can wear down the enamel and cause the gums to recede.
- Hormones. Changes in hormone levels can make gums more sensitive and prone to recession.
- Smoking. Tobacco products can cause gum recession and increase the risk of gum disease.
Preventing and caring for receding gums involves:
- Proper brushing techniques. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing motions.
- Regular check-ups at our Garstang practice. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can prevent further recession.
- Scaling and root planing. A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
- In severe cases, procedures like gum grafts can restore lost gum tissue.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterised by inflammation of the gums. It can be a result of poor oral hygiene, often for years, which allows plaque to build up on the teeth.
If you are experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms of gingivitis, please book an appointment with our friendly team:
- Red, swollen gums. Healthy gums should be firm and pink.
- Bleeding gums. Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.
- Bad breath. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Gingivitis can often be reversed with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning:
- Brush and floss daily. Proper brushing and flossing can remove plaque and prevent gingivitis.
- Regular cleanings. Professional cleanings can remove plaque that you can’t reach with a toothbrush.
- Antibacterial mouthwash. This can help reduce bacteria that cause gingivitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is essentially advanced gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, damaging soft tissue and the bone that supports your teeth.
Treatment of periodontitis
The treatment of periodontitis requires more intensive care, such as:
- Scaling and root planing. Deep cleaning to remove bacteria from below the gum line.
- Surgery. In severe cases, procedures such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be necessary.
Prevention and management of all gum disease includes consistent brushing and flossing, routine appointments for early detection and healthy lifestyle choices such as avoiding tobacco use. At Staina House Dental Practice, we recommend visiting us twice a year for routine checkups in most cases. These visits allow us to monitor your oral health and provide professional cleanings that you can’t achieve at home.
Oral cancer
As we age, the risk of various health conditions, including oral cancer, increases.
Oral cancer can affect the entire mouth, from the lips to our sinuses and throat.
Signs and symptoms to watch out for
Early detection of oral cancer greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Signs to look out for include:
- Persistent sores. Sores in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal within two weeks.
- Red or white Patches. Unexplained red or white patches on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth.
- Lumps. Any lumps, thickening or rough spots in the mouth or throat.
- Pain or numbness. Unexplained pain or numbness in the mouth or lips.
- Difficulty swallowing. Persistent difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.
- Changes in the voice. Hoarseness, chronic sore throat or changes in the voice.
- Ear pain. Pain in one ear without hearing loss.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to book a prompt appointment at our practice in Garstang. Routine dental check-ups play an important role in the early detection and prevention of oral cancer. During regular visits, our experienced team conduct thorough examinations to identify any abnormalities that may be indicative of oral cancer.
Book your appointment at Staina House Dental Practice
At Staina House Dental Practice, we encourage all of our patients, especially those over 50, to maintain routine dental visits and to be vigilant about any changes in their oral health. Together, we can ensure early detection of common oral health issues and improve the chances of successful treatment, allowing you to maintain a healthy smile throughout your golden years.
To find out more about common oral health issues in ageing or to book your routine appointment, please call our friendly reception team on 01995 605707.
