Dental Problems in the Elderly You Should Know About
Older adults may become more vulnerable to dental problems due to ageing and associated health conditions. Medications and poor dental care too can result in dental issues. After all, the teeth carry out a lifetime of chewing, grinding, etc. Further, these issues can cause gum infections, tooth pain, and so on. So it is significant to prevent dental problems from occurring as well as treat them immediately if already infected. However, make sure you take your elderly to the best dental clinic in your city. For example, if you are in Doha, see a dentist at the best dental clinic in Doha. And here are some of the common dental problems affecting the elderly.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay can be a result of consuming sugary foods, a decrease in saliva production, or frequent snacking since all these contribute to sugar and acid accumulation in the mouth. Decayed teeth can lead to cavities, thus causing pain, infection, or even tooth loss. Furthermore, medical conditions like arthritis or dementia can result in tooth decay as well. It is because older adults with such problems may feel brushing is painful or forget to do it. And the ways to prevent tooth decay include brushing twice a day, reducing sugar intake, and drinking water following a meal. Also, fluoride toothpaste is to be used, and an electric toothbrush can be used if it makes brushing easier.
Gum Disease
Gum disease can be due to smoking or the presence of bacteria in plaque. It can be identified by irritation, bleeding, and redness of the gums. Gingivitis, a gum disease affecting the part of gums around the base of the teeth, can also occur. It is caused by bacterial buildup where teeth and gums meet. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a severe gum infection that can damage gum tissue. It even destroys the bones supporting the teeth if left untreated. However, gum disease can be prevented and treated through proper dental care and a regular visit to the dentist.
Receding Gums
In this condition, the gum tissue covering the teeth wears away, exposing more teeth. It can also be due to smoking, poor dental care, or even genetic. Exposure of the roots of the teeth can cause sensitiveness, and if left untreated, it can result in more severe gum infections and tooth loss. However, there are treatment procedures to address receding gums, such as deep cleaning and gum grafts.
Dry Mouth
With age, saliva production may also get decreased, thus leading to dry mouth in the elderly. It can also increase the chances of tooth decay and cavity since sugar and acid buildups happen easily in the mouth. Needless to say, a dry mouth leads to dry and cracked lips as well. Drinking water regularly or stimulating saliva production by chewing gums should help prevent dry mouth in the first place. Moreover, ensure that you visit the best dental clinics in Doha if you are looking for a dental consultation for your older adult’s dental issues.
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