Did you know?

• As we age, our dental health needs change as well?
• 20% of adults over the age of 65 have tooth decay or have lost most or all of their teeth?
• As we age, there is a decrease in the amount of saliva we produce
• There are steps we can take to protect and enhance our dental health as we age!

Let’s Talk Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Many people believe that tooth decay is only seen in children and that gum disease is a normal part of aging; however, neither of these is true. Tooth decay can occur at any age as long as a person has their natural teeth. Plaque can build up which, and if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay.  One way to combat tooth decay is to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it and drink fluorinated water.

Gum disease is also impacted by plaque buildup. The plaque builds up and hardens along the gum line causing an infection that if left untreated can eventually loosen teeth resulting in tooth loss or needing teeth to be pulled.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable.

Here are some do’s and dont’s of maintaining good dental health

DO

• Eat sugar-free candy or chewing gum that has xylitol which helps to stimulate saliva production.
• Be sure to make an appointment for regular dental check-ups with your dentist.
• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluorinated toothpaste.
• Use an electric or battery-operated toothbrush as recommended, as it helps reach those areas that may be challenging as we age.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day. Use a floss holder if you have arthritis or stiffening of the joints.
• Speak to your dentist about prescription-strength fluoride mouth rinses and fluoride varnishes if you have a history of tooth decay.
• Speak to your dentist about possibly using a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine if you have gum disease or are at greater risk of gum disease.
• Every older adult should have a dental cleaning and an oral health assessment by their dentist at least twice a year.
• Be mindful if you have had replacement heart valves or prosthetic joints because you may need to be even more careful about your oral hygiene to prevent the risk of serious infection.  It’s best to speak with your healthcare and dental provider about extra steps you may need to take before you have your teeth cleaned or undergo any dental procedures.

DON’T

• Smoke or use chewing tobacco
• Unless absolutely necessary or advised by your provider, use medications that can cause a slowing in the production of saliva.  Ask your healthcare provider for more information about which medications you are on that might cause this slowdown in saliva production.
• Eat foods that are high in sugar, especially candy.

If you have further questions or concerns, please reach out to us at VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services by calling 888-268-4825.

Until next time, stay healthy, safe and well.