Dental care for seniors...
 The
good habits of effective daily brushing, diet, and use of fluoride
will help the aging person adapt to changing conditions. Reduced
salivary flow and addition of medications will affect oral health
dramatically.
Changes of the teeth and gums: Teeth will darken because of
long-term exposure to plaque and changes in the dentin within the
tooth. The gums may recede and uncover the roots. Exposed roots will
be darker than the enamel part of the tooth and are prone to decay.
Fillings can decay and darken, too, as they weaken over time.
"Dry Mouth" may develop: Saliva is useful to lubricate, wash away
plaque, and neutralize the acid produced by plaque. Flow of saliva
can be reduced by a medical disorder or be a side effect of
antihistamine, decongestants, pain killers or diuretics.
The build-up of plaque will accelerate tooth decay. There will
also be more gum infection which will cause a loss of bone support
for the teeth. Poorly-fitting or poorly-cleaned dentures, illness,
and some medications increase the severity of the problem.
For more information regarding dental problems of the elderly,
please call our office.
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