As we age, changes in our body are inevitable ー and our teeth and gums are no exception.
As we age, our oral health can easily decline if we don’t take proactive steps to maintain it. Although there has been a significant decrease in untreated tooth decay in the last couple of decades, there are still plenty of dental problems seniors can face.
At Bayway Dental, we’re committed to helping patients throughout the Tampa Bay area maintain healthy smiles throughout their lives. Understanding how aging affects your teeth and gums will empower you to make informed decisions about your dental care and prevent potential issues.
Why do teeth break as you get older?
Why do so many elderly people have fewer teeth?
This guide covers the most common dental issues we see. Read in for answers to questions like these!
How Does Aging Impact Our Teeth?
While age itself is not a direct cause of dental problems, the cumulative effects of lifestyle choices, medication, and general health changes can affect your mouth’s health.
According to the American Dental Association, comorbid conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, etc.) and prescription medications can heavily influence one’s risk of dental problems.
In general, here are some of the primary ways aging may impact your teeth and gums:
Tooth Wear and Enamel Erosion
Over time, the surfaces of your teeth undergo considerable wear and tear. Everyday activities like chewing, teeth grinding (often unknowingly while sleeping), and exposure to acidic foods can wear down your enamel ー the hard outer layer that protects your teeth.
Cleveland Clinic points out that enamel erosion can also occur from…
- Consuming too many sugary or starchy foods and beverages
- Brushing too hard
- GERD (chronic acid reflux)
- Long-term use of certain medications (like antihistamines)
Once the enamel thins, your teeth may become more sensitive to temperature changes and more vulnerable to decay. More concerningly, enamel cannot regenerate. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
That’s why protecting your enamel is crucial throughout your life. Whether you’re already 65+ or simply planning ahead, now is the best time to ask your dentist about how to protect it.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
One of the most common dental issues faced by older adults is dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. It’s estimated that it affects as many as 1 in 5 people.
As we age, our body’s ability to produce saliva can diminish, especially due to the side effects of medications. Saliva plays a critical role in neutralizing acids in the mouth, washing away food particles, and protecting against cavities.
The ADA lists over 500 medications that can lead to dry mouth, and many of these are commonly prescribed to seniors. Some conditions that may require these medications include high blood pressure, depression, and allergies.
If left untreated, dry mouth can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral infections. In some cases, it can also compromise the patient’s health and dietary intake.
Tell your doctor right away if you’re experiencing oral discomfort or dryness, even if you feel like it’s minimal.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another major concern for older adults.
It begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Gingivitis is treatable, but if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to gum recession, tooth loss and even affect overall health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 60% of adults aged 65 or older likely have some form of periodontal disease. Studies shared by the American Academy of Periodontology have also shown a connection between gum disease and other systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Correcting poor oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly are critical steps in preventing and managing gum disease. Don’t skimp on brushing and flossing, no matter your age!
Tooth Decay
While tooth decay is often associated with children, older adults are also at high risk. As gums recede due to age or gum disease, the roots of the teeth become exposed, making them more vulnerable to cavities.
Additionally, many of our patients have dental fillings or crowns that have worn down over time, increasing the risk of decay around these restorations.
The CDC notes that untreated cavities in older adults can lead to tooth loss and serious health problems. In fact, about 1 in 8 adults 65 and older had complete tooth loss between 2015 to 2018.
A comprehensive dental care routine, including fluoride treatments, regular cleanings, and addressing issues like dry mouth, can help prevent cavities in seniors.
Tooth Loss
Speaking of tooth loss, while modern dentistry has significantly reduced the number of people losing teeth as they age, this is still a common issue among seniors.
Gum disease and untreated decay are the primary culprits. Losing even a single tooth can affect your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. Furthermore, missing teeth can lead to changes in facial structure, causing the cheeks to sag or the jawbone to shrink over time.
Fortunately, there are many modern ways to replace missing teeth, such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants, in particular, have become a popular solution as they look and function like natural teeth and help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
At Bayway Dental, we believe dental implants are the best permanent solution for missing teeth. They look and feel just like your natural teeth and can improve your quality of life by allowing you to easily chew your favorite foods again!
Reach out today to learn more about dental implants and if they might be a good fit for your goals and budget.
Oral Cancer
The risk of oral cancer increases with age. As the American Cancer Society states, the average age of people diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancers is 64.
Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are some of the major risk factors for oral cancer. These types of cancers are normally found in the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx (part of the throat behind the mouth), and gums.
Regular dental check-ups are really the only way to detect oral cancer early. Your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of abnormal growths, sores, or lesions during routine visits.
Bone Density and Tooth Support
Bone density naturally decreases with age, which can affect the jawbone that supports your teeth. If bone loss occurs, it can lead to loosening or shifting of the teeth, eventually resulting in tooth loss.
Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, can also impact dental health. Research published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows a correlation between osteoporosis and an increased risk of tooth loss, particularly in postmenopausal women.
Stay on top of your bone density reports, and if you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, let your dentist know.
Broken Teeth
Teeth can become more fragile with age due to a combination of factors. The enamel, which protects the teeth, thins over time, making them less resilient to pressure and impact. Additionally, conditions like osteoporosis can weaken the jawbone and supporting structures, leading to instability in the teeth.
Teeth may also become brittle due to a lack of minerals, making them more susceptible to fractures, especially when biting down on hard foods.
Preventing Dental Problems as You Age
Taking care of your teeth and gums becomes even more critical as you get older. While aging may pose additional challenges, there are several effective steps you can take to maintain a healthy mouth:
Stick to a Regular Dental Care Routine
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential habits, but as we age, we may need to take extra precautions.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to protect sensitive gums and strengthen tooth enamel. If flossing becomes difficult due to arthritis or other mobility issues, consider using interdental brushes or a water flosser.
Keep Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps combat dry mouth and rinses away food particles. For those struggling with chronic dry mouth, products like saliva substitutes, sugar-free gum, or oral rinses specifically designed for dry mouth relief can help stimulate saliva flow.
Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol are both significant contributors to gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can have a profound positive impact on your oral and overall health.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
In 2023, about 65% of adults 18 and older had a dental cleaning or exam in the past year. That means roughly 35% are missing out on regular care.
At Bayway Dental, we highly recommend that seniors visit the dentist every six months, even if they don’t have natural teeth. During these visits, your dentist will clean your teeth, check for cavities, and screen for oral cancer.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating nutrient-rich foods is critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus are particularly important for bone and tooth health. Reduce your intake of sugary and acidic foods, which can erode enamel and promote decay.
Consider Dental Restorations
If you have missing or damaged teeth, don’t delay in seeking treatment. Dental restorations such as implants, crowns, and bridges can restore both the appearance and function of your teeth, improving your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
Restorations also help prevent further dental issues, such as shifting teeth or bone loss in the jaw.
Emerging Trends in Senior Dental Care
As the senior population continues to grow, dental care advancements are increasingly focusing on the unique needs of older adults.
These emerging trends are making it easier for seniors to maintain strong oral hygiene and improve their quality of life. Let’s explore some of the most promising developments in senior dental care:
Minimally Invasive Dentistry
Minimally invasive techniques have revolutionized dental care for seniors by preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible while addressing issues like decay, wear, and gum disease. Advances in restorative materials, such as composite resins and dental bonding agents, allow dentists to treat cavities and minor damage with less drilling and discomfort.
For seniors with multiple health issues, minimally invasive procedures offer a quicker recovery time and less stress on the body, making them ideal for patients who may have trouble undergoing more extensive treatments.
Laser Dentistry
Laser technology is becoming a popular option in dental offices due to its precision and reduced need for traditional tools like drills. Laser treatments can be used to address gum disease, tooth decay, and even teeth whitening.
This technology offers a more comfortable experience for seniors, with less bleeding and swelling and faster healing times.
3D Printing and Digital Dentistry
Advances in digital dentistry, particularly the use of 3D printing, are making it easier to create custom dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. 3D scanners provide accurate impressions of teeth and gums, eliminating the need for messy molds that some find uncomfortable.
Get Help Protecting Your Teeth Later in Life
Aging doesn’t have to mean a decline in oral health. By understanding the specific risks that come with age and following a robust dental care routine, you can maintain a bright, healthy smile throughout your life.
As Dr. Len Brennan of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine stated, “Good dental health not only protects against gum disease, gum inflammation, and tooth loss but also can protect against many other age-related diseases. A healthy mouth really can lead to a healthier body.“
If you experience any changes in your oral wellness, such as increased tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, or gum problems, visit your dentist promptly for advice and dental treatment.
Schedule a Visit at Bayway Dental
Our goal is to give our patients unparalleled, evidence-based care to keep their smiles as healthy as they are happy. Whether you have a broken tooth or a receding gum line, we’re here to help.
To schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can protect your oral hygiene as you age, contact Bayway Dental today.
We’ve cared for thousands of patients just like you!
