Seniors and dental health care
 Dr.
Cook feels that
good habits of effective daily brushing, diet, and use of fluoride will
help the aging person adapt to changing conditions. Reduced salivary
flow and addition of medications will affect oral health dramatically.
Changes of the teeth and gums:
Dr. Cook has noted that teeth will darken because of long-term
exposure to plaque and changes in the dentin within the tooth. The gums
may recede and uncover the roots. Exposed roots will be darker than the
enamel part of the tooth and are prone to decay. Fillings can decay and
darken, too, as they weaken over time.
"Dry Mouth" may develop: Saliva is useful to lubricate, wash away
plaque, and neutralize the acid produced by plaque. Flow of saliva can
be reduced by a medical disorder or be a side effect of antihistamine,
decongestants, pain killers or diuretics.
The build-up of plaque will accelerate tooth decay. There will also be
more gum infection which will cause a loss of bone support for the
teeth. Poorly-fitting or poorly-cleaned dentures, illness, and some
medications increase the severity of the problem.
For more information regarding dental problems of the elderly, please
call Southdale Family Dentistry at (952) 926-6081 today.
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