Kingston TN
A lot of changes happen to a body as it ages, and that includes changes to the mouth, teeth and gums. Older adults are susceptible to certain oral health risks. And as if the general physical hurdles that aging bodies face weren’t enough, studies have linked poor oral health to an increased risk for systemic health problems like heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Today, our family dentist in Kingston is focusing on dental health as we age, including some of the heightened risks the elderly may face and what can be done to maintain a healthy, youthful smile well into the golden years.
What are common dental issues in older adults?
Let’s take a look at a few of the most common issues that aging adults may face with their mouth, teeth and gums:
- Dry mouth — Saliva is nature’s way of cleaning and protecting our teeth and gums. It washes away food particles and harmful bacteria, neutralizing acids in the mouth. Unfortunately, saliva production can decrease with age, and certain medications prescribed to the aging population can cause dry mouth. Without saliva helping clean the mouth, teeth become more susceptible to tooth decay.
- Discolored teeth — Teeth can become stained, yellow or dingy with age. Tooth enamel, the white outer protective coating of teeth, starts to wear away, exposing the yellow dentin underneath. Also, years of staining foods and beverages like coffee, wine, tomato sauce, chocolate and dark sodas can cause teeth to be stained dark, and even certain prescription medications can stain the teeth.
- Root decay — Tooth root decay is particularly common in older adults whose gum tissue has started to recede. Plaque buildup can cover teeth and move to their roots, increasing the risk of developing cavities, inflammation, sensitivity, infection and tooth loss.
- Gum disease — Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissues that hold the teeth in place. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 70 percent of American adults 65 years and older have gum disease, whether in its beginning stages, called gingivitis, or the more advanced stage of periodontitis.
What are ways I can keep my smile youthful as I age?
Keeping a youthful smile involves good dental hygiene, regular dental checkups, healthy lifestyle choices and, if needed, cosmetic dental treatments. Let’s take a closer look at the best ways to keep a happy, healthy smile even as you age:
Maintain strong oral hygiene practices
Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Our Harriman family dentist recommends brushing once after breakfast and once before bed. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed. Floss once daily; we recommend flossing during your nighttime oral health care regimen. Add an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash to reduce plaque and strengthen tooth enamel.
Schedule and keep your dental appointments
Appointments twice a year at our Rockwood family dentist office are a chance for our dental team to professionally clean your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas where plaque and tartar may have built up since your last visit. It’s also a time for our dentist to examine your teeth and mouth to screen for signs of decay or other potential dental problems.
Healthy lifestyle choices
Enjoy a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and dairy products to ensure you’re receiving adequate nutrition, including for your dental health. Limit sugary and acidic foods that can erode tooth enamel. Stay hydrated with water and other beverages that don’t contain sugar or alcohol. Refrain from smoking or using other tobacco products; they can stain teeth and also increase your risk of developing gum disease and oral cancer.
Cosmetic procedures
Some older adults enlist the help of cosmetic dentistry to bring a dull, aged smile back to life.
Here are a few of the most common procedures they turn to:
- Teeth whitening — Professional teeth whitening can remove years of staining in an hour or two!
- Orthodontic treatments — Enhance the appearance of your smile with braces or Invisalign clear aligners.
- Bonding and veneers — Chipped or cracked teeth or teeth with intrinsic staining can be addressed with dental bonding or veneers.
- Gum care — Treatments like scaling and root planing can address gum disease, while gum contouring can improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
Cosmetic dentist in Kingston, Harriman and Rockwood, TN
Keeping a youthful smile as you age is possible with a combination of strong oral hygiene, regular dental visits, healthy lifestyle choices and maybe a little help from our cosmetic dentist in Kingston at LakeView Dental Arts. To keep your smile healthy, or to bring an aging smile back to life, contact us at (865) 248-2199 or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment today.
