Here’s a surprising fact: did you know that according to the CDC, about 70% of adults who are 65 years or older have some form of gum disease? It is also the leading cause of tooth loss, which means that most older adults are at an increased risk of having gaps in their grins.
It’s natural to feel shocked by such statistics, and unfortunately, they’re not just numbers. These figures represent a reality that many older adults face. Thankfully, there are things you can do to safeguard your smile. Continue reading to learn about 4 reasons older adults are more likely to develop periodontal problems so you can take steps to prevent them!
Cause #1: Prescription Medications
As you get older, your body is more likely to develop certain conditions that can only be treated with prescription medications. For example, you’re more likely to have heart issues, diabetes, depression, or anxiety. These are all addressed with drugs that can cause dry mouth.
Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Without enough of it, unwanted germs are allowed to thrive. They can cause halitosis (bad breath) in addition to gingivitis.
Cause #2: Hormonal Changes
Women are particularly prone to gum disease in their later years because of menopause. The hormonal changes in your body can cause imbalances that lead to a painful periodontal condition known as desquamative gingivitis. Increased blood flow to your mouth combined with higher levels of sex hormones can lead to sore, bleeding, red, and swollen gums.
Cause #3: Malnutrition
Another startling figure from the CDC is that 1 in 6 adults 65 years or older have lost all of their teeth. Missing pearly whites can impact a lot more than just your oral health. You could end up with gastrointestinal problems because you’re unable to thoroughly chew your food into small enough pieces to be digested. You could also become malnourished if you’re not able to enjoy fruits, vegetables, and meat that are too hard or chewy to bite into.
If you’re not getting enough vitamin C, then your body won’t have the nutrients it needs to keep your connective tissues strong. On top of that, your immune system won’t be functioning at its peak, making it more vulnerable to harmful bacteria.
Cause #4: Smoking
Smoking vapes or cigarettes can also increase the likelihood of having gum disease. In fact, smokers are twice as likely to have a periodontal issue as non-smokers. The risk only increases based on your daily usage; the more frequently you smoke, the more vulnerable you are. This is because tobacco suppresses your body’s ability to fight infection. Plus, it constricts your blood vessels and limits your blood flow so that your teeth and gums don’t receive all the nutrients necessary to remain healthy and strong.
Cleaning your remaining teeth and gums twice daily, along with routine dental checkups, can help prevent periodontitis. That way, even if you’re at a higher risk, you can still protect your grin!
About the Practice
At Omega Dental of Bedford, you and your family benefit from a husband-and-wife dental duo that offers a full array of services under one roof. They take pride in helping people build and maintain their healthiest, happiest smiles. Whether you need basic preventative care or more complex procedures, they can help! By combining a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art technology, they can enhance your comfort while increasing treatment accuracy. If you’re worried about gum disease and want an appointment, you can request one on the website or call (817) 518-6915.