Dental health and older adults

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), older people get more cavities -- three times more -- than children. But consider this: One generation ago, the majority of older people lost all their teeth. No teeth, no cavities. So the fact that cavities are no longer just for kids is actually good news. It means that most older people today have retained some or all of their natural teeth.

This teeth-retention trend should continue. People of all ages are enjoying better dental health today because of the preventive emphasis in dentistry and other developments. According to a survey released by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the rate of tooth loss for people ages 55 to 64 has dropped 60 percent since 1960.

Aging and other factors can bring changes that make your teeth and mouth more vulnerable to cavities and other problems. But with proper care, your teeth can last a lifetime. That should bring a smile to your face. The key phrase is "with proper care." Remember this traditional dental proverb: Be true to your teeth or your teeth will be false to you.


Dental health challenges for older adults
Various factors put older people at greater risk for developing cavities, gum disease and other dental health problems. For example:
Aging fillings can lead to further tooth decay. If this is a concern for you, your dentist may recommend replacing the fillings. Ill-fitting dentures can also impair oral health.

As we age, we tend to take more medications. Many medications decrease saliva flow, which is the body's natural defense against cavities. Decreased saliva flow can also contribute to bad breath.

Some chronic diseases that are more common in older people can affect dental health. Diabetes, for example, can increase your risk for periodontal disease. If you have arthritis or other physical disabilities, pain and lack of flexibility may make it difficult for you to floss or brush your teeth. Your dentist may suggest adaptive devices, including extenders for toothbrush handles and specially designed floss holders. Or try the following "home remedies" recommended by the American Dental Association:

Use a wide elastic band to attach the brush to your hand.
Enlarge the brush handle with a sponge, small rubber ball or bicycle hand grip. Also try winding an elastic bandage or adhesive tape around the handle.
Lengthen the handle with a small ruler or tongue depressor.
Tie the ends of floss into a loop for easier handling.
Use an electric toothbrush or commercial floss holder.
You may not have enough fluoride in your diet. Fluoride, an element that helps prevent cavities, has been added to public water systems for decades. During your youth, however, you may not have been able to benefit from this public health measure. As a result, your teeth may have become weakened by cavities over the years. Even today you may not be receiving fluoride's benefits if you drink mostly fluoride-free bottled water or use water purifiers that remove fluoride.

Growing up, you may not have been able to visit dentists regularly. As a result, your teeth and gums may not be as healthy today as they might have been. Your current dental care may also be inadequate if you lack transportation to a dentist's office or only see a dentist when a problem develops.

If you live alone, you may not eat as often or as nutritiously as you should. This is often particularly a concern for older adults who live alone. Eating a well-balanced diet helps keep teeth and gums healthy.