Aging and Dental Health: What to Look Out For in Your Golden Years

When most people think of aging, they imagine wrinkles and sagging of the skin that can develop. Unfortunately, the teeth can also be affected by age and can begin to deteriorate with tooth loss that can occur. Fortunately, there are a few signs to look out for once entering your golden years. Bleeding Gums Bleeding and sensitive gums are a common sign that gum disease may be developing, which is common among seniors. This can often be due to plaque or bacteria that is not cleaned off of the teeth and sits underneath the gums. While you it seems so simple, dental professionals like Guerra Dental recommend flossing and brushing each day to maintain proper oral health and reduce the risk of gum disease. Persistent Tooth Decay Tooth decay can begin to develop more rapidly with age, which can cause the teeth to deteriorate at a fast rate. It's important to schedule regular cleaning exams every six months. Sugary or acidic foods should also be avoided in your diet to reduce the risk of cavities. Acid Erosion Sugary and starchy food that are consumed can cause excessive amounts of bacteria in the mouth, which will end up producing more acid. Carbonated beverages that have added sweeteners can be the biggest threat to the teeth, which will eventually cause the enamel to wear down. Wear on Teeth With age, it's common for adults to begin to grind their teeth during the day or at night as they sleep. This can cause the teeth to wear down or even crack due to excess pressure. This will make teeth that have fillings or root canals to be even more vulnerable due to less strength compared to teeth that are still fully intact. Stains One of the most common problems to develop on teeth with age are stains that can discolor teeth permanently. This can reduce the appearance of the smile due to certain foods or beverages that are consumed. Avoid drinking coffee, tea, and soda to prevent discoloration. A dental professional can also remove some of the stains during a routine cleaning. By practicing proper oral care, it's possible to have teeth that you feel proud of. Knowing what to expect as you enter the golden years will make it easier to increase your oral care routine and avoid common problems. This can prevent tooth loss and will allow you to have stronger teeth for the remainder of your life.