As time passes, our bodies naturally undergo the aging process, and this includes our teeth and oral health. Understanding and maintaining oral health becomes increasingly important as we age. A consistent, comprehensive approach to your oral health that incorporates regular visits to your Tarzana dentist will go a long way in combating the effects of aging on your teeth.
What is Oral Health?
Oral health is about maintaining a healthy mouth, including your gums, tongue, and the inner lining of your mouth. As we age, our oral cavity undergoes several changes. Gums might recede, teeth can become more sensitive, and saliva production may diminish. These changes can increase the risk of oral health issues such as dry mouth, gum disease, and tooth decay. Good oral health is integral to our overall well-being, influencing everything from our ability to eat and speak to our self-esteem and quality of life.
What Oral Health Issues Can Impact You as You Age?
Our oral health can be impacted in various ways, leading to specific challenges that require attention and care. Here is how aging can affect oral health:
- Gum Recession - One of the most common aging issues is gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth and its root. This can lead to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities on the tooth root.
- Dry Mouth - Saliva production often decreases with age, a condition known as xerostomia or dry mouth. Saliva is crucial for neutralizing acids and washing away food particles. Reduced saliva flow can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Tooth Wear and Sensitivity - Over the years, the hard outer layer of our teeth (enamel) wears down, leading to increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Changes in Taste: Aging can also bring about changes in taste, which might not directly affect oral health but can influence diet and nutrition, indirectly impacting oral health.
- Tooth Loss - Aging increases the risk of tooth loss, primarily due to periodontal (gum) disease or severe tooth decay. This can affect chewing and speaking abilities and also change facial aesthetics.
- Decreased Manual Dexterity - Conditions like arthritis, which are more common in older adults, can make it challenging to maintain proper oral hygiene due to reduced hand and finger mobility.
- Medication Side Effects - Many older adults take medications that can affect oral health. For example, some medications cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of oral health issues.
- Underlying Health Conditions - Age-related health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis can affect oral health. For instance, diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, and osteoporosis can lead to bone loss in the jaw.
- Oral Cancer Risk - The risk for oral cancer increases with age. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection.
- Change in Dental Needs - The need for restorative dental work, like fillings, crowns, bridges, or dentures, often increases with age.
What Long Term Steps Can You Take to Maintain Your Oral Health?
As a trusted Encino dentist, our team can attest to the fact that oral health at any age is a necessary daily hygiene routine. For older adults, this might mean adapting techniques to suit changing needs. Using soft-bristled toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes, or even flossing aids can help maintain effectiveness in oral care. Mouthwash and fluoride become increasingly important as they help combat sensitivity and provide additional protection against decay.
Regular Dental Visits
Regular dental visits are crucial, especially as you age. These check-ups are not just about cleaning, they are about preventative care and early detection of potential problems. Dental professionals can help manage age-related issues such as dry mouth and gum disease and provide guidance on specific concerns like dental prosthetics or the effects of medications on oral health.
Food Choices
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining oral health. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, like dairy products and nuts, help remineralize teeth. Crunchy fruits and vegetables can stimulate saliva flow, essential for oral hygiene. On the other hand, limiting sugary snacks and acidic foods can greatly reduce the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion.
Beverage Choices
Hydration is key for oral health, and nothing beats water. It helps wash away food particles and neutralizes harmful acids. Green tea can also be beneficial due to its natural fluoride content. However, beverages like sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol can have detrimental effects on your teeth. Minimizing their consumption and using strategies like drinking through a straw can help mitigate these effects.
Don't Let Age Define Your Smile
At Nargiz I. Zadeh, DMD, we understand that maintaining oral health as you age can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Our comprehensive approach to dentistry and personalized care make us the ideal partner to help you maintain a radiant and healthy smile. Whether you're in Encino, Tarzana, or the surrounding communities, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today if you are looking for a healthier approach to oral care as you age.