Oral health issues are prevalent among older adults.

As people age, their oral health often encounters issues such as enamel erosion, cavities, and gum-related diseases. These conditions significantly impact overall health, particularly when the body's natural defences weaken in older adults. In the following article, The East Rose Dental Clinic will discuss common oral health problems in older adults and provide effective care tips.

Why do older adults often experience more oral health issues?

Human teeth are incredibly strong, able to withstand pressure up to 200 pounds. However, even though enamel is durable, it can wear down over time due to chewing food and exposure to acidic substances like soft drinks and citrous fruits. This erosion reduces the enamel's protective capability and makes teeth more vulnerable to damage.

As enamel weakens, problems such as cracked or broken teeth can arise, leading to pulp inflammation and serious complications. Age also decreases nerve sensitivity in the teeth, making oral issues more subtle and difficult to detect. Consequently, older adults commonly face more oral health problems compared to younger individuals.

Common Oral Health Issues in Older Adults

As we enter old age, our bodies undergo many changes, and oral health is no exception. These changes can lead to a range of common oral health issues that older adults often face. The East Rose Dental Clinic.

Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a common oral health issue among older adults and often leads to tooth loss if not treated. It arises from improper oral care, leading to bacterial buildup and plaque formation around the tooth roots, causing gum recession, infection, and, in severe cases, bone loss. Noticeable symptoms include bleeding gums when brushing, swollen and red gums, increased tartar, foul breath, and loose teeth, which can cause significant discomfort in daily life.

Tooth decay and pulpitis
Older adults often face tooth decay due to age and poor oral hygiene. Signs include sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or acidic foods, as well as the presence of grey-black cavities on teeth. Untreated decay can lead to pulpitis, causing severe pain and infection near the tooth root, which may progress to bone infection if not promptly addressed.

Tooth Wear and Large Tooth Damage
Tooth wear in older adults often results from brushing too hard or grinding teeth during sleep. Additionally, an imbalanced diet, particularly high in acidic foods and drinks, contributes to enamel erosion, making teeth brittle and prone to damage. This can lead to serious issues like tooth sensitivity and extensive damage.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
In older adults, temporomandibular joint disorders frequently cause pain in the jaw and around the ear, making chewing difficult and uncomfortable. This condition may cause a stiff jaw joint and misalignment when biting. Headaches can follow, and clicking or popping sounds may occur when opening or closing the mouth, significantly impacting quality of life and eating ability.

Dry Mouth
Dry mouth in older adults often results from decreased metabolic and immune function with age. Chronic diseases and long-term medication use are common causes. This condition not only increases the risk of tooth decay but also makes chewing and swallowing difficult, seriously affecting oral health and quality of life. The lack of saliva also raises the risk of oral infections and digestive issues.

Tooth Loss in Older Adults
Tooth loss is prevalent among older adults, with nearly 20% of individuals over 65 losing all their teeth. This rate increases significantly to 26% for those over 75, double the rate for those aged 65-74. Tooth loss or dentures can affect nutrition, leading older adults to prefer soft, easy-to-chew foods over nutritious fruits and vegetables, resulting in nutritional deficiencies and overall health impacts.

Dysphagia and reduced taste sensation
As people age, they often experience decreased chewing and swallowing function, as well as reduced taste sensation. This makes eating less enjoyable and can lead to decreased appetite and inadequate nutrition, resulting in nutrient deficiencies and frequent fatigue. 

Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious health issue in older adults, often arising from persistent lesions or sores. Factors contributing to this condition include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, immune system decline, and systemic diseases such as diabetes and age-related cardiovascular issues.

Oral cancer symptoms may include persistent sores, mouth pain, difficulty swallowing, and changes in the color or shape of oral tissues. If not detected and treated early, oral cancer can progress rapidly and metastasise to other areas of the body.

Read more: Causes of Premature Tooth Loss and Alarming Consequences

Effective Dental Care and Protection

Proper dental care is crucial for maintaining oral health in older adults. Due to changes in function and health over time, applying appropriate care measures helps prevent many common oral issues. Here are some effective ways to care for and protect oral health for older adults, as provided by The East Rose Dental Clinic:

• Proper brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush the front, back, and between teeth for at least two minutes each time.
• Flossing and mouthwash: Use dental floss to clean between your teeth and below the gum line on a daily basis. To control bacteria and reduce bad breath, combine with fluoride mouthwash.
• Regular check-ups: See your dentist every six months for examinations and early treatment. This helps prevent serious conditions and keeps your oral health in check.
• Avoid harmful foods: Limit consumption of sugary and acidic foods. These can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.
• Maintain oral moisture: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated, which helps avoid swallowing difficulties and reduces the risk of oral problems.
• Treat oral issues promptly. If you notice unusual symptoms like tooth pain, gum bleeding, or bad breath, seek timely treatment to prevent more serious issues like tooth decay and gum disease. For tooth loss, consider implant treatment to prevent bone loss and related issues.

The East Rose Dental Clinic's aesthetic and functional restoration of all-ceramic dental treatments for older patients has yielded impressive results. 

Through the above article, you should now understand the significant impact of oral health issues on older adults' overall health and quality of life. Therefore, The East Rose Dental Clinic hopes you will proactively schedule regular check-ups and promptly address any issues to improve your smile and, importantly, protect your long-term health.