Is tooth loss inevitable in your later years? How much should adults be concerned about cavities? Here you will find helpful answers to some frequently asked questions about oral health questions you may have as you get older.
National survey reveals seniors miss links between oral and overall health
Baby boomers looking for the warning signs of adult-onset diseases may be overlooking key symptoms in their mouth that should signal alarms about their overall health. According to a survey commissioned by the Academy of General Dentistry, 63 percent of baby boomers (ages 45-64) with an oral symptom considered to be a key indicator of a more serious health condition were unaware of the symptom`s link to the condition.
Lack of education about dental health can negatively impact older adults’ overall health, which is exactly what our dentist for seniors aims to prevent.
Dental Health Concerns in Older Adults
Our bodies and smiles undergo changes as we age. Understanding common oral health risks in seniors is the first step to preventing them.
Elderly Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is a major concern among older adults. There may be several underlying causes, but gum disease and tooth decay are most common. Regular dental visits help remove plaque and address dental issues early, before they cause tooth loss.
Dry Mouth
Seniors often suffer from dry mouth, either due to medication, dehydration, or natural changes. Dry mouth may not seem like a big deal, but it can contribute to dental concerns and bad breath. Saliva naturally cleans out your mouth and helps prevent bacteria from thriving.
Lack of Daily Dental Care
As we get older, it can get harder to take care of our teeth at home. Brushing and flossing require dexterity, which decreases with age. Many seniors struggle with dental hygiene, but are afraid to ask for help. Our dental team can provide advice to make at-home care more accessible. Furthermore, regular dental cleanings become even more important for older adults.
Count On Us for Senior Dental Care in Edenton, NC
While seniors face dental challenges, they can still enjoy healthy smiles with the right care. Albemarle Dental Associates is here to help older adults care for their smiles. We offer compassionate services and personalized advice to help seniors maintain their dental health as long as possible, so they can enjoy life full of conversation and great meals.
Visit our dentist for seniors in Edenton, NC, today!
Missing a tooth? You don’t have to live with the gap any longer. At Albemarle Dental Associates, we offer custom dental bridges in Edenton to help you smile, speak, and chew with confidence again. A dental bridge fills the space left by one or more missing teeth, giving you a natural look and dependable function.
Visit our dental office today for a tooth bridge in Edenton, NC.