According to the NIH as much as 10% of individuals between ages 50 and 64 have no remaining teeth. In addition on average, individuals over 50 are missing about six teeth (not including wisdom teeth). Many aging adults believe that permanent tooth loss is evitable, however with proper maintenance you or your gaining loved one can continue to have healthy teeth throughout life. Listed below are issues and proper guidelines to helping your mouth stay young 

  • Tooth Decay: The buildup of dental plaque can wear down the enamel of your teeth overtime. It is important to brush your teeth and floss every day in order to prevent cavities from forming. It is especially important to see a dentist for checkup as they can diagnosed a cavity and fill it before the tooth cannot be saved

 

  • Gum Disease: Plaque can also build up along the gums and lead to infection. If this infection becomes serious it needs to be treated by a dentist so that the infection doesn’t permanently ruin the bones, gums or other tissue that supports your teeth. Brushing and flossing teeth regularly will also decrease the likelihood of gum disease

 

  • Dry Mouth: Dry mouths are fertile ground for bacteria and can lead to tooth decay and infection. Often medication given to aging adults cause dry mouth. If you or your loved one is suffering from dry mouth make sure to talk to your Dentist as he or she might recommended different ideas such as artificial salvia to help you maintain an optimal level of mouth moisture (source)

If you are caring for an aging adult it is important to make sure they are taking care of their dental hygiene. In addition, there are dentists that specialize in elderly dental hygiene and can offer detailed suggestions to how to treat many issues that aging adults make face when it comes to oral hygiene. This post is provided by Sprain Brook Manor Rehab which Provides unique opportunity to recover from medical procedures that result in true satisfying results. Getting you stronger and better every day. Contact us today to receive more information. Disclaimer: The information provided in this post in not intended to be construed as health advice, nor should it be considered a substitute for obtaining individual medical counsel or consulting your physician.