We all want a healthy smile, but as we age there are a number of oral health issues that might arise. Today our Surrey dentist discusses some oral health conditions to watch for as you age, and what you can do to help treat or prevent them.
As we age there are a few oral health conditions that can arise, which don't generally show up when we're younger. To keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright, contact your dentist if you think that you might be suffering from any of the conditions below.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a relatively common condition encountered by older adults. Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands don't make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Prescription medications and radiation therapy to the head are common causes of this condition.
Patients who suffer from dry mouth face an increased risk of tooth decay. If you suffer from dry mouth, make an appointment to see your dentist. Dental professionals can suggest strategies to help you deal with dry mouth and protect your teeth from tooth decay.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal disease progresses slowly and gradually without patients even knowing there's a problem. Periodontal disease can cause damage to your jawbone as well as your gums, if left untreated. In advanced cases periodontal disease can lead to loose teeth or even the loss of teeth.
It's also important to note that a number of serious health conditions have been linked to periodontal disease, including heart disease, stroke, respiratory problems and diabetes.
Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- changes in the way dentures fit
- tender or swollen gums
- bite changes
- receding gums
- loose teeth
- bad breath
- bad taste in the mouth
To restore good health to your smile, be sure to make an appointment to see your dentist if you have any of the symptoms listed above.
A strong oral hygiene routine that includes brushing thoroughly twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings twice yearly, can help to prevent periodontal disease.
A healthy smile may help to protect your overall health!
Tobacco
If you're a smoker, you already know that there are countless reasons to quit smoking. Improving your oral health is yet another reason to give up tobacco use. Smoking can stain teeth like nothing else, turning them yellow or even brown overtime
You can greatly reduce your chances of developing oral and pharyngeal (throat) cancers, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and mouth sores or lesions that do not heal (leukoplakia), by quitting tobacco.
Quit smoking and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups in order to keep your smile looking young and healthy.
Oral Cancer
It's important to note that adults who smoke or chew tobacco have an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
Oral cancers can be difficult to detect in the early stages. Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and oral cancer screenings can help to protect your overall health as well as your smile.
Restoring a Healthy Smile
As we age our teeth naturally darken, but some foods and lifestyle choices can also stain teeth. If your smile isn't as bright as it once was, there are a number of restorative treatments available from your dentist to help improve the appearance and function of your smile.