When you think of Orion Dental, do you think about how we specialize in dentistry for kids? With bright, colourful offices, fish tanks in our waiting rooms and craft activities to keep kids occupied while they’re waiting for their turn, we don’t blame you! But seniors also have teeth, too, you know! And while our senior patients are usually less interested in our child-friendly approach, they still have dental and oral hygiene issues that should be attended to. Here are four common dentistry issues seniors should be beware.
Four Dental Issues Seniors Should Beware
Here are four issues that many seniors will have to deal with as they age into their golden years:
- Tooth Loss – In a 2015 study, it was determined that nearly 20% of US adults over the age of 65 have lost all of their teeth. The study found the issue in 13% of adults between the age of 65 – 75 years old, and a whopping 26% in adults over the age of 75. In many cases, tooth loss in seniors can be attributed to periodontal conditions (see the next point), but other significant factors include decades of normal wear and tear and a softening or degradation of the jaw bones that the teeth are anchored into.
- Periodontal Disease – The earliest signs of periodontal disease are swollen and bleeding gums, but over time it can worsen to include persistent bad breath, sores on the gums and in the mouth, and, in severe cases, loosening of the teeth as the condition affects the bones that surround and support the teeth. Periodontal disease results from poor dental hygiene habits, smoking, several types of medication and some diseases often associated with the elderly.
- Oral Cancer – Regrettably, oral cancer is more prevalent in older people. Oral and pharyngeal cancers have a median diagnosis age in the early 60’s. Some factors believed to be linked to higher incidences of mouth cancer include the use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, pipes and chewing tobacco), the consumption of alcohol, genetics and a weakened immune system. Prolonged exposure to even mediocre levels of these triggers are thought to be a leading cause of oral cancer.
- Lack of Affordability – Many seniors are living with in a state of low income, relying on government pensions and their retirement savings to cover their on-going living costs. Further, they are not covered by any extended health benefits programs they formerly received as part of their employment. Sadly, as seniors cut costs to help make their pensions and savings stretch further, dental care is a cost that many choose not to afford. Having seen the impact of neglected dental care, we strongly encourage any seniors to not let their dental care lapse. There are often programs offered by your local government that can assist qualified seniors. Halton Region offers two programs called Ontario Works Adult (OWA) and Dental Care Counts (DCC) on this page, while Toronto offers support on this page.
There are many aches, pains and conditions seniors must be aware of as they head into their golden years, and issues related to their dental and oral health are part of that mix. Some of the most common dental issues associated with seniors include tooth loss, periodontal disease, oral cancer and lack of affordability. However, understand the early signs of those conditions and consulting with your family dentist are great ways to nip these issues in the bud, helping keep your teeth and mouth in great shape. Orion Dental offers a full range of dental services for the entire family, from the youngest babies to the most elderly seniors. Call our dental office in Milton or in Scarborough today and book an appointment and let us help you take care of your and your family’s teeth and mouths!
