As the years go by, our body undergoes all kinds of changes. Most people already pay close attention to the physical and mental health concerns of older adults, but did you know that oral care needs extra attention too? Good oral care is important at every age, but older adults in particular benefit from healthy teeth and from preventing inflammation and cavities. These, after all, have a major effect on overall health.

Oral health in older adults

In recent years, there have been many changes in the advice around oral care for older adults. In the past, it was quite normal to get dentures later in life; today, dental care emphasizes keeping your own teeth. That’s because this is generally better for oral health. Natural teeth provide better chewing power, stimulate the jawbone structure, and promote saliva production, all of which contribute to a healthy mouth. That is why we always recommend visiting a dentist or dental hygienist regularly; they monitor your teeth and give you suitable advice.

Why is good oral care important for older adults?

Did you know that oral health has a major influence on overall well-being? Inflammation in the mouth affects blood circulation, which can in turn cause other health problems. Think of problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or even lung infections. That is why it is not only very important to care for your teeth, but also to always be alert to any signals of underlying problems. So visit a dentist regularly. This keeps your teeth healthy and allows possible risks to your health to be detected early.

Oral problems in older adults

Because your teeth have such a big influence on your overall health, it is important to keep your oral resistance up and to be alert to oral problems. Possible problems are:

Tooth decay (cavities)

The risk of tooth decay, also called cavities or caries, is greater in older people. This is the result of changes in the mouth structure and saliva production. The use of medication also has an influence. So visit your dentist regularly for a checkup.

Gum disease

Inflamed and receding gums are common problems in older people. If you don’t have this treated by the dentist, it leads to inflamed gums, bleeding, and in some cases even tooth loss.

Dry mouth

Reduced saliva production is a common effect of certain medications, such as antidepressants or sleeping pills. This results in a dry mouth or bad breath.

In addition, saliva helps neutralize acids and prevents tooth decay.

Canker sores

Canker sores are small, painful spots in the mouth. These spots often occur in older adults as a result of reduced immunity. Canker sores are harmless, but often very painful and annoying.

Wear of tooth enamel

Over the years, your tooth enamel wears down, making the teeth thinner and more vulnerable. We also call this dental erosion. This problem can be solved with a fluoride treatment.

Wear of tooth enamel

Older adults with dentures sometimes experience problems such as irritation, pain, or a poor fit. It is important to address this in time and thereby keep your mouth healthy.

Support for oral care in older adults

Fortunately, many problems can be prevented by giving your teeth some extra attention. Keep your mouth in good condition by:

• Ensuring good oral hygiene. Make time to brush your teeth thoroughly and correctly, and floss daily.
• Regularly making appointments for checkups and/or professional cleaning at the dentist or dental hygienist.
• Drinking enough water; this reduces the risk of a dry mouth.
• Using the right toothbrush. With a soft toothbrush, you prevent gum problems and/or injury.
• Eating a balanced diet. Get enough calcium and vitamins and limit the amount of sugar.
• Paying close attention to whether there are changes in your mouth. Are wounds not healing well? Is the color of your mucous membrane changing, or are you experiencing pain? Report these changes to your dentist.

Visit the dentist more often later in life

Problems such as receding gums, tooth loss, and wear occur more and more often in older adults. That is why the right oral care is extra important. Go to the dentist regularly to have your teeth checked. By spotting problems in time, it is possible to act quickly and prevent things from going from bad to worse. We therefore recommend having a checkup at least twice a year. Are you in doubt about the health of your teeth? Then feel free to get in touch with us; we take the time to listen to your complaints and tackle the problem.

Dentures and prostheses

Do you already have dentures or a prosthesis? Then it is extra important to clean these daily and to check them regularly for any damage or wear. Dentures that no longer fit well cause irritation and infections. By having your teeth checked regularly by the dentist, you prevent the problem from getting worse.

Daily oral care for older adults

Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This removes most of the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum problems. In addition, it is important to get as many vitamins and minerals as possible and to limit your sugar intake.

Are you curious about the health of your teeth? At iSmile dental practice, we offer expert care and extra attention to your oral health. Register online through our registration form or make an appointment right away.

Contact iSmile Tandartspraktijk

Would you like advice about your oral health, or do you notice changes in your teeth? Then feel free to get in touch with iSmile dental practice. We are happy to guide you toward better oral health. Call 020 218 42 57, send an email to info@ismile-tandartspraktijk.nl, or make an appointment online right away via the buttons below.

About Leena Ibrahim

Leena Ibrahim is the founder of iSmile Tandartspraktijk and has been working as a dentist for more than twenty years. After her training as a Doctor of Dental Surgery at Western University in Canada, she gained four years of experience as a general dentist before settling in the Netherlands. With iSmile Tandartspraktijk, she realized her vision of high-quality dental care in a calm and personal environment.

Leena has a special affinity with anxious patients and is certified to carry out treatments with laughing gas and sedation. In addition, she completed extensive continuing education, including in the field of implantology, so that she can keep offering her patients the best possible care. In her blogs, she shares her knowledge and advice to help you toward healthy and strong teeth.