Whether you’re young or old, if you have teeth, you should try your best to keep them! Seniors are living longer than ever before, and that means teeth need to last longer too.
“Our teeth change as we age. Often teeth become more sensitive and will naturally change colour. Some of these changes are a result of a lifetime of use, and some are related to medications and chronic diseases,” says Dr. Fatemeh Basij, DDS, dentist and the owner of Allard Dental Centre. “Gums may start to pull away from your teeth, and that gives bacteria the opportunity to accumulate in gum pockets or attack exposed tooth roots causing cavities. It’s important to stay on top of your oral health to avoid complications.”
1. Keep up with daily hygiene
Plaque build-up can cause tooth decay or gum disease, but daily brushing and flossing can help remove plaque and its bacteria. Keep up your regular routine, even as you age, and visit a dental hygienist every four to six months for a deeper cleaning.
“If you develop arthritis or another injury that makes flossing difficult, we can recommend other tools or special brush technique that may work better for you. We can also make simple modifications to your tooth brush handle for those with reduced dexterity,” Dr. Basij says.
2. Know the signs of oral cancer, and watch for changes in your mouth
“Your risk of getting oral cancer increases as you age. I encourage my patients to get familiar with their mouth and come see me if they notice any changes,” Dr. Basij says.
Talk to your dentist if you have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks:
- An uncomfortable spot, a lump or thick area, or a white or red patch in your mouth, lip or throat.
- Increased trouble chewing, swallowing or moving your tongue or jaw.
- Numbness in your tongue or mouth.
- Swelling in your jaw.
3. Help for dry mouth
Many medications may cause dry mouth as a side effect, and it can also occur with certain health conditions like diabetes. If a lack of saliva is making it hard to eat, swallow or talk, your dentist may be able to offer solutions.
“In addition to being uncomfortable, dry mouth can lead to tooth decay or infection — our saliva is important for oral health,” Dr. Basij says.
4. Think about what you put in your mouth
Cutting down on sugary foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay and improve your overall health. Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products puts you at an increased risk for oral cancer. Alcohol consumption also increases your risk of oral cancer.
“When seniors with health conditions come to our office, we start communicating with their physician and specialists to make sure their medications and health condition is not interfering with dental treatments,” Dr. Basij says.
Learn more about dental health for seniors by meeting with the expert staff at Allard Dental Centre. Their office is accessible and walker/wheelchair friendly. Book your appointment at allarddentalcentre.ca or call 604-882-0568, conveniently located at 301-21183 88 Ave., Langley with abundant free parking. Find them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news.
