Senior Dentistry
Beaverton, OR
 Like any other body part, our teeth and gums are no exception to the effects of aging. Besides cosmetic changes, they go through natural wear and tear with advancing age, putting seniors at risk of oral health problems. Luckily, with advancements in modern dentistry, there are ways to help maintain healthy teeth and gums in our senior years. Senior dentistry focuses on addressing the unique dental challenges older adults face and ensuring they enjoy a healthy, functional smile well into their golden years. At such an age, regular dental checkups and quality care are essential to maintaining good oral health. Summercrest Dental specializes in providing quality senior dentistry services tailored to meet the specific needs of our older patients.
The Importance of Senior Dentistry
Senior dentistry aims to address oral health changes that come with aging for seniors. Good oral health is crucial for them because it impacts their ability to eat, speak, and maintain a high quality of life, making it essential to address any dental issues promptly. If neglected, poor oral health could lead to serious systemic health problems, including heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. Luckily, geriatric dentistry aims to maintain natural teeth, deal with gum disease, and tackle oral health problems associated with aging, such as dry mouth, tooth loss, and dental prosthetics. It involves preventive measures like regular checkups, x-rays, and cleaning appointments to detect and manage potential dental issues before they become severe.
Common Dental Issues for Seniors
As seniors age, the odds of developing dental problems such as tooth decay increases. This is often caused by gum recession, dry mouth (which can be a side effect of medication), and the natural wear and tear of tooth enamel over time. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and some health conditions can also expose seniors to periodontal disease. In addition, older adults are prone to tooth loss. Missing teeth can impact their ability to eat, speak, and maintain a healthy smile. Tooth loss can result from untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. An uneven jawbone is another dental issue that may develop in older age and can cause difficulties with chewing and jaw pain. Seniors may also experience oral problems, such as denture-induced stomatitis, thrush, brittle teeth, oral cancer, and a diminished sense of taste. Note that age is not the only dominant or sole factor that can cause dental issues in seniors. Certain medications and conditions may also play a role. Additionally, seniors are more prone to weakened immune systems that can slow treatment progress and cause oral health complications.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene for Seniors
To help maintain a healthy smile, seniors may consider incorporating good oral hygiene practices into their routine. Flossing and brushing natural teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and food particles from between their teeth and along the gum line. An antibacterial mouth rinse can help reduce the bacteria that lead to plaque and root caries.
What Seniors Can Expect During a Dental Exam
A dental exam for seniors typically involves thoroughly evaluating the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. This helps the dentist detect signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues specific to older adults. Additionally, the dentist may assess the fit and function of any dental prosthetics, such as dentures or bridges, and recommend adjustments or replacements as needed. For more information, Summercrest Dental offers comprehensive dental care for seniors. Contact our office today at (503) 649-7701 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists. |
