Elder Dental Challenges

 

Studies show that our growing, older-adult population is better educated, wealthier and healthier than its parent generation. Improvements in quality of life have allowed these people to live longer and keep their permanent teeth... permanently. It is still very important to monitor an elederly person's oral condition.

Older adults who still have permanent teeth are faced with challenges in spite of their good behavior: Wear-and-tear from years of use may result in worn -away enamel. Diminishing immunity defenses may encourage cavities, gum disease and other oral infections. Prescriptions medications and cancer therapies may cause "dry mouth". Physical weakness can make chewing difficult. Swallowing may be difficult if food is not chewed well enough.

Because older adults' health can be unpredictable, it is important that their teeth are brushed daily and that they see the dentist more frequently to monitor oral health conditions and to keep up-to-date health records.

For more information on our office, go to http://www.pearlywhitesdds.com

Image credit: http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01910/PF-elderlytravelle_1910827c.jpg