How are your teeth?
By Nancy Honig
That time of year recently rolled around for me, the time when I need to see the dentist for my checkup. I honestly enjoy going to the dentist, but I have never had any issues other than the occasional cavity. One of the things I have learned about dental health in recent years is that it can play a significant role in our overall health, especially as we age.
Unfortunately, there are several reasons while older adults tend to have poor oral health.
Many older Americans do not have dental insurance because they lost their benefits upon retirement and the federal Medicare program does not cover routine dental care, thus they are unable to afford to see a dentist. Older adults may be more likely to be homebound and find it difficult to go somewhere to receive services. Seniors who live in long term care facilities are also at increased risk of poor oral health as are those who smoke.
According to the CDC common oral health problems in older adults include:
* Untreated tooth decay. Nearly all adults (96%) aged 65 years or older have had a cavity; 1 in 5 have untreated tooth decay.
* Gum disease. A high percentage of older adults have gum disease. About 2 in 3 (68%) adults aged 65 years or older have gum disease.
* Tooth loss. Nearly 1 in 5 of adults aged 65 or older have lost all their teeth. Complete tooth loss is twice as prevalent among adults aged 75 and older. Having missing teeth or wearing dentures can affect nutrition, because people without teeth or with dentures often prefer soft, easily chewed foods instead of foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
* Chronic disease. People with chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, heart diseases, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be more likely to develop gum (periodontal) disease, but they are less likely to get dental care than adults without these chronic conditions. Also, most older Americans take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs; many of these medications can cause dry mouth. Reduced saliva flow increases the risk of cavities.
So, what can you do to improve your oral health?
* Drink fluoridated water and brush with fluoride toothpaste.
* Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque. If you find it difficult due to arthritis or grip strength, there are several assistive devices available that can improve your ability to brush and floss.
* Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures. If you are unable to afford it check with your local health department for
* If you have diabetes, work to maintain control of the disease. This will decrease risk for other complications, including gum disease. Treating gum disease may help lower your blood sugar level.
* If your medication causes dry mouth, ask your doctor for a different medication that may not cause this condition. If dry mouth cannot be avoided, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.
* See your doctor or a dentist if you have sudden changes in taste and smell.
If you are a caregiver, be sure and help older individuals brush and floss their teeth if they are not able to perform these activities independently.
