Dental Care for the Elderly

Posted on 5/22/2023 by Summit Dental Group

Despite the fact that many things change, the necessity of caring for your teeth does not. If anything, its significance may grow through time.

Why is Elderly Dental Care Important?

Because of all the changes your body goes through as you age, seeing your dentist twice a year is just as necessary now as it was as a youngster. We become more prone to dry mouth, gum disease, and chronic health concerns as we age.

Nearly half of all persons over the age of 65 have at least one chronic disease, with the majority having multiple. Cancer, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension are a few examples, as are back discomfort, hearing loss, depression, and vision issues. These conditions are typically managed with medication, many of which cause dry mouth, leaving older Americans prone to gum disease and cavities.

If elderly dental care is ignored, conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer's, and diabetes are likely to worsen. It's not just those with chronic health conditions who are at risk. Gum disease and cavities can affect healthy older persons as well. Loss of employer-provided health and dental insurance is a regular occurrence for retirees. Even if an elderly person is eligible for Medicare, only medically necessary procedures are covered; therefore, regular dental care must be funded by another alternative. Because many elderly Americans do not have simple access to dental insurance, they postpone routine dental checkups, putting them at increased risk for oral health problems.

The Basics

Dry mouth and gum recession are frequent symptoms of aging. With less saliva to wash away microorganisms, you are more likely to develop cavities and gum disease. Continue to see your dentist twice a year to keep your teeth healthy and your oral hygiene in good shape. Search for affordable dental plans to encourage good dental health practices, and make sure any bridges, implants, crowns, or dentures are in good shape.