Your body ages, your brain ages and so do your teeth and gums. Changes that occur in your mouth can have wide-ranging effects on all aspects of your health.
Poor oral hygiene can put you at higher risk of cavities and tooth loss, making it harder to chew foods and eat a healthy diet. Gum disease triggers chronic inflammation in the body that can damage blood vessels and affect insulin resistance. This increases your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and even dementia.
Sticking with a good oral care routine as you get older can help you keep your mouth — and the rest of you — healthier.
How aging affects your oral health
Getting older can take a toll on your teeth and gums. Reduced saliva production, receding gums, tooth decay (or even loss) all become more common with passing years.
Paying close attention to medication side effects, eating a healthy diet and practicing good oral hygiene can go a long way toward preserving your tooth and gum health.
Combatting dry mouth
Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is a side effect of dozens of common over-the-counter and prescription medications. And you’re more likely to regularly take one or more medications as you get older. So it’s no surprise that, according to the American Dental Association, 30% of people older than 65 have dry mouth.
Medications that can decrease saliva production include those commonly used to treat:
- Allergies
- Cholesterol
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Pain
When your mouth is dry, there isn’t enough saliva to effectively wash away bacteria.
That can lead to difficulty swallowing, tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Talk to your doctor about switching medications if dry mouth symptoms are an issue. You can also increase saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum, drinking more water and avoiding things that cause dehydration (such as alcohol and caffeine).
Stopping gum disease
Gum disease can spell big trouble as you age. Over time, the gums can recede, pulling away from the base of the teeth. That leaves more of the tooth — and even the root — exposed. Once that happens, bacteria can easily build up around the roots and lead to sore, swollen gums and tooth decay.
Taking care of your gums includes daily flossing and gentle brushing. Pushing on your gums aggressively when you brush can cause swelling, irritation and receding gums.
Preventing tooth loss
Gum disease and tooth decay play a big role in tooth loss in older adults. And while implants and dentures have improved tremendously with modern technology, it’s still better to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
The best way to hold onto your teeth? Take care of them every single day. Twice-daily brushing and daily flossing are the two keys to a healthier mouth. You can also take better care of your teeth by:
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Drinking less alcohol
- Eating a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables
- Limiting sugary foods and drinks
- Managing blood sugar levels
Don’t forget about the dentist
Even the best home care isn’t enough to keep your mouth healthy enough for the long haul. Twice-yearly visits to the dentist are also important.
Your dentist has the tools necessary to fully clean your teeth of the bacteria and plaque buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease. They can also keep a close eye on the health of your teeth and gums, catching — and treating — small problems before they become bigger ones.
