50 or Older? What You NEED to Know About Your Dental Health!

People are now living longer and healthier lives, and older adults are more likely than ever before to keep their teeth for a lifetime.
However, research has shown that older people also have the highest rates of periodontal disease. In fact, at least half of people over age 55 have some form of periodontal disease, and almost one out of four people over 65 have lost all their teeth.

No matter what your age, it is important to keep your teeth and
gums healthy. If you’ve succeeded in avoiding periodontal
disease as you age, it is especially important to continue to maintain your oral care routine. Be sure to brush and floss daily, and see a dental professional, such as a periodontist, regularly. You should also receive a comprehensive periodontal exam
each year. This will ensure that your oral health (and possibly
even your overall health) stays at its best. If you have dexterity
problems or a physical disability and are finding it difficult to
properly brush or floss your teeth, your dentist or periodontist
can suggest options such as an electric toothbrush or floss
holder.

Research has shown that periodontal disease is a chronic
inflammatory disease that may put you at a higher risk for other
diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and 
Alzheimer’s disease. During your regular visits with your dentist or
periodontist, be sure to let him or her know if you have any of
these medical conditions or if you have a family history of disease.
Likewise, if you have been diagnosed with periodontal
disease, it’s a good idea to share this information with your
physician to ensure that you’re receiving appropriate care.

You should also tell your dentist or periodontist about any
medications you are taking, because many medications can
impact your oral health and therefore affect your dental
treatment. Hundreds of common medications - including
antihistamines and high blood pressure medications - can cause
side effects such as soft tissue changes, taste changes, and gum
overgrowth. Another possible side effect of some medications is
dry mouth, a condition that leaves the mouth without enough
saliva to wash away food from your teeth. This may leave you
more susceptible to tooth decay and periodontal disease, and can
cause sore throat, problems with speaking, and difficulty
swallowing.

Maintaining your oral health should be a priority at any age.
As you get older, be sure to continue to take care of your
teeth and gums to ensure that they’ll stay healthy and strong for
life!

Special Concerns for Women

Women who are menopausal or post-menopausal may experience
changes in their mouth including dry mouth, pain or burning
sensations in the gum tissue, and altered taste due to hormonal
changes. Additionally, menopausal women should be concerned
about osteoporosis, which can lead to tooth loss if the density of
the bone that supports the teeth has decreased. Talk to your doctor
about hormone replacement therapy or estrogen supplements,
which may help symptoms of menopause.