Best Strategies for Good Oral Health in Your Golden Years

As we age, taking care of our health means watching not only nutrition and physical capability but also our teeth and gums. Senior dental problems are common, from dry mouth to periodontal disease, and because oral health affects the health of the rest of the body, these issues need to be taken as seriously as heart or digestive health.

Issues seniors may face

• Gingivitis: an early stage of gum disease caused by bacteria in plaque, with red, swollen or bleeding gums.
• Advanced gum disease: a bacterial infection of the gum tissue that supports the teeth, and the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
• Periodontitis: a severe form of gum disease affecting more than half of people aged 65 to 74, which untreated can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
• Root decay: receding gums expose root surfaces, which are softer and more porous and so more susceptible to decay.
• Dry mouth: often caused by medication, this reduces saliva's role in rinsing away bacteria and neutralising acids.
• Difficulty brushing and flossing: arthritis and other mobility issues can make these harder.
• Limited dentist access: transport, medical conditions or limited mobility can make it harder to access dental services as we age.
• Oral cancer: most common in people over 40, and about seven times more common over 65. See a dentist promptly about unusual patches or sores that fail to heal within two weeks.

Oral health reflects overall health

More than 90 per cent of systemic diseases have oral manifestations, including swollen gums, mouth ulcers and dry mouth. Diabetes, leukaemia, oral and pancreatic cancer, heart disease and kidney disease can all show early signs in the mouth; for example, bad breath and bleeding gums can be an early indicator of diabetes, dental x-rays can show early bone loss, and a sore, painful jaw can sometimes foreshadow a heart attack.

Keeping your teeth healthy as you age

Regular checkups and professional cleans help remove plaque and tartar that can lead to periodontal disease. At home, brush twice daily with a soft brush; if arthritis makes this difficult, ask about dental aids or an electric toothbrush, and consider interdental cleaners or floss holders if flossing is hard. Fluoride toothpaste and rinses can help strengthen enamel and prevent root decay.

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