Aging is an aspect of life that is unavoidable. Its effects will be felt throughout your body, including your teeth. Being conscious of the effects of aging on your teeth can allow you to maintain your health and look good. We will go over some of the potential dental difficulties as we age and how to avoid them.
So, what are the typical symptoms of normal aging on your teeth and gums?
What happens to your teeth as you get older is mostly determined by how you’ve treated them over the years. Mechanical changes cause progressive enamel loss over decades of everyday use. The weakened enamel is now at a higher risk of injury because you’re still chewing, biting, and possibly grinding.
Because your nerves shrink as you age, your teeth are no longer as sensitive as they once were. Below are some of the most common symptoms:
- You will most likely experience dry mouth.
When you get older, you may notice a decrease in saliva production. Saliva secretion is gradually reduced by the glands. This is very normal. Based on the medications you’re taking at the time, you might discover that dry mouth exacerbates the condition.
It also can result in many other issues. Since saliva no longer washes away bacterial build-up as effectively as it used to. You will notice the formation of plaque, which is a precursor to periodontitis.
If this illness is not treated, it can lead to receding gums, cavities, and tooth loss. The roots of the teeth may be seen if the gums recede. As a result of this disease, they are more prone to inflammation and injury.
The gums may become thinner and recede. Cavities are more common in people who have a dry mouth and receding gums. Dry lips, according to some experts, may render the lining of the esophagus more vulnerable to harm.
It also makes the bacteria accumulate easily in the mouth, which can contribute to dental caries.
- Periodontal disease signs and symptoms are visible.
Older people want to preserve their teeth despite dry mouth and disappearing gums. Are you aware that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss? The buildup of bacteria in the gums and associated structures causes periodontal disease.
This is a serious disease of the gums and related structures. People with poor dental hygiene, smokers, and people with specific diseases are more likely to get it.
- You will start to experience sudden tooth loss.
With age, tooth enamel wears away, leaving the teeth vulnerable to damage and decay. Tooth loss is the most common cause of older people’s inability to chew properly, resulting in vitamin deficiency. When people get older, the section of the jaw bone that holds their teeth in place recedes and does not maintain their prior height.
Tooth loss is the most common cause of older people’s inability to chew properly, resulting in vitamin deficiency.
4. Cavities are becoming more common.
Cavities near the root of the tooth are more likely to occur in elderly people due to receding gums.
5. Taste perception may deteriorate as we get older.
Older people may find their meals dull, so they add a lot of seasonings, especially salt. But, bear in mind that this can be detrimental to some individuals. Some may crave really hot dishes without knowing that this can irritate their teeth and gums.
You might try to compensate for the observed tastelessness by adding extra spices as flavor sensations fade. Some people start eating their meals hotter to get back the mouth-feel they’ve lost. Burns to the gums are not uncommon as a result of this.
These burns can turn into mouth sores, which can be painful and make you not want to keep up with your oral hygiene.
Let us take a look at the impact of an unhealthy routine on your gums and teeth below.
Year-or decade-long behaviors or health concerns come up for you as you get older. Some of them are habits you’ve known you should break for a long time. Others are snooping on you.
As you get older, your gums’ health status may suffer. One main reason is that you are brushing your teeth too forcefully or with the wrong toothbrush. In this situation, it may result in gum receding, which is exacerbated by age.
Some health issues are beyond your control. Individuals who do not keep up with their routine dental checkups risk developing pus pockets. And this eventually causes infections and diseases.
But, how to maintain a healthy mouth?
Some of the concepts sound familiar, and you may have heard about them for decades.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
Furthermore, the American Dental Association recommends using a brush with soft bristles.
- Floss at least once a day and immediately after consuming items that become trapped between teeth.
Ribs and blueberries are two examples. If you have trouble flossing, try flossers. This will slip effortlessly between your teeth. Also, these are small enough to fit in your handbag or wallet for a quick clean on the move.
- Sugar-containing foods and beverages should be avoided.
If you have been smoking or chewing tobacco, stop immediately.
- Visit your dentist for regular dental checks, as you’ve been told since you were a youngster.
Nonetheless, there are four suggestions that you might not have heard of before.
Ask for assistance if you have a dry mouth.
Whether it’s a medicine side effect or simply aging, now is the time to learn new strategies to cope. Apart from hydration, tooth-friendly chewing gum with xylitol is helpful. It can improve saliva production in the mouth. Cut off caffeine while you’re at it; it causes dry mouth as well.
If you have terrible breath, keep an eye on it.
Take the time to follow up on it if you’ve been covering it with mints. It could be a red flag.
Living with ill-fitting appliances is not a good idea.
Do not disregard a removable partial, a set of dentures, or a dental bridge that appears to be causing complications. These appliances produce mouth ulcers, which may make you avoid brushing properly. Keep any detachable appliances clean and tidy as well.
Inspect any tooth or mouth pain.
You probably didn’t pay much attention to minor aches and pains when you were younger. Now is the time to err on the side of caution. Follow up with your dentist if you have dental pain, loose teeth, or mild discolorations.
You could find yourself in front of a problem that is simple to solve today but could grow into a much bigger problem in the future.
Points to Remember
Your teeth are an investment that should be safeguarded. It is totally possible to do so with today’s technology and developments in oral health care. Taking proper care of your teeth is the best approach to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.
Also, check-ups and cleanings with your dentist should be done on a regular basis. You simply cannot stop yourself from getting older. But, you can prevent your teeth from doing so by practicing basic dental hygiene.
Visit your dentist on a frequent basis to maintain good dental health. They can help you find dental problems that are caused by getting older, and they can even help you keep your mouth healthy for the rest of your life.