Aging affects dental health and causes problems such as missing and crooked teeth. Even older adults without other medical problems can face many dental issues. Most adults face dental problems like tooth decay, wear and tear of teeth, gum problems, and so on. The best treatment from the family dentist relieves older adults of their daily teeth problems. This blog lists the important steps for seniors to take for better oral health after their 60s.
Which Dental Problems Do Seniors Face After the Age Of 60?
Dental problems occur when people enter the age of 60 years. Chipping, wear and tear, and cracking of teeth are common dental issues most adults suffer. Some adults also face other dental problems, such as:
- Missing teeth
A large population of senior citizens suffers from this dental issue. The gaps between the teeth look bad and can also cause infection. The excess use of tobacco also causes the problem of missing teeth in older adults.
- Darkening of teeth
Dentin is a type of tissue placed under tooth enamel. Changes in dentin can cause teeth to darken in old people. Another cause of dark teeth is the overconsumption of foods and beverages that leave stains on the teeth. The thinning of an outer layer of tooth enamel makes the teeth look yellow. This is one of the most severe dental issues in old people.
- No sense of taste
Many adults start losing their taste with age, medications, and dentures.
- Gum problems
Gum issues exist in both young and older adults. The common reasons for gum problems are tobacco use, poor diet habits, bad-quality dentures, and anemia. Some adults with Diabetes suffer from gum problems after the age of 60.
- Improper position of jawbone
Missing teeth cause this problem in older adults. They may also shift other teeth to open spaces.
- Certain diseases
Growing older affects adults’ immune systems. They suffer from poor immunity as they age. Poor immune levels can cause dental issues such as oral cancer and gum problems in old people.
- Loss of teeth
Adults who do not take proper care of their teeth may lose them later. Some gum problems also cause tooth loss in older adults.
- Bad breath in adults
This is one of adults’ most common dental issues after 60. The main causes of bad breath in older adults are gum diseases, bad dentures, and dry mouth.
- Decaying of roots
With growing age, the adults suffer from decaying of roots and teeth.
Best Tips For Seniors To Maintain Strong Oral Health After 60
Older adults can get strong teeth even after the age of 60 years. They have to follow certain tips to maintain strong oral health, such as:
- Regular brushing and floss
Older people must regularly undertake oral hygiene tasks, such as brushing their teeth twice daily and flossing daily, to maintain strong teeth.
- Implants and no dentures
Dentures may lead to tooth loss in adults. Instead, older adults must get implants for a perfect look of regular teeth and strong jaw support.
- Medication effects
Older adults must check the side effects of certain medications that damage their teeth.
- Consumption of water
To promote dental health, older adults must drink plenty of water and actively avoid sugary drinks and soda.
Conclusion
These days, elderly people suffer from many daily dental problems. Even those seniors who may appear healthy often grapple with dental challenges that will worsen over time if not treated promptly. They must follow a proper diet and visit the dentist every month for regular check-ups and cleanings of their teeth. They must also avoid smoking and drinking sugary beverages that damage tooth enamel.
