For over 20 years, September has been designated healthy aging month. This is an annual celebration of the positive side to growing older. During this month, a variety of sources provide Inspiration and ideas for baby boomers and adults aged 45 and above to help them to improve their physical, mental, social, as well as financial well-being. It is our hope that we at Designs For Dental Health can provide some pertinent information to contribute to our fellow baby boomers.
It is interesting to note that there are over 76 million baby boomers today over the age of fifty and the first of the 82 million Generation X-ers are about to reach that milestone in 2015. Why not use September as a time to look back on where you’ve been and consider what you might truly like to do with the rest of your life. If you’re happy and fulfilled with what you’re currently doing, keep on keeping on! If not, this is definitely the time to make a change. From my point of view, I’m happy to keep on doing what we, as your dental care providers, love to do most. Help to keep you healthy! 
So, with that in mind, here’s our question for you today: How’s your smile?
First of all, research supports the idea that those who smile more are just plain happier. Secondly, those with a healthy mouth are much less likely to develop a myriad of diseases commonly suffered by those of us in the 60+ population. So ask yourself- when is the last time that you had a comprehensive dental examination to determine your overall oral health and the best methods used to maintain it? I promise to provide such a comprehensive examination free of charge for anyone over age 55 who has been a patient in our practice for more than 5 years and who requests it. That’s right! All you have to do is ask! I’ll sit down with you for as long as it takes to discuss your concerns and desires. Then, we’ll do a comprehensive examination including an oral cancer screening, evaluation of your teeth, gums, and bite. Together, we’ll discuss any options that might be available to you to improve your dental health and from that discussion we will arrive at the best treatment plan for you.
Consider this – a mere 60 years ago, it was assumed that we would lose all of our natural teeth as we aged. Now we know that a healthy mouth and teeth will help you to not only look good, but to eat delicious and nutritious foods, to speak clearly and to be confident. An excellent quality of life demands a vibrantly healthy mouth. Just consider the fact that those whose oral health is subpar are at risk for various serious medical conditions including: heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pneumonia, cancer, and various other diseases which are common in older adults.
What are some common oral health problems?
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Dry mouth. Reduced salivary flow is most commonly the result of cancer treatments, the use of certain medications, and certain diseases. Dry mouth is a significant cause of decay and gum disease in older patients because saliva serves to buffer acids that are produced as we eat. Without the protection of these buffers, rapidly advancing problems occur.
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Darkened teeth. Our teeth tend to darken with time as the pulp in our teeth recedes and the outer layer of enamel becomes thinner, thus allowing the darker dentin to show through. There are various methods available to whiten the teeth for a more youthful appearance. These techniques do not harm teeth and most patients are extremely happy with their whiter, more beautiful smiles.
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Root decay. As the gums recede, exposure of the tooth roots result. Exposed root surfaces are less resistant to decay than enamel and decay here is quite common. Good brushing and plaque removing habits go a long way to protect these surfaces. In addition, the judicious use of fluoride rinses can be most helpful to protect these exposed surfaces.
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Gum disease. Inflammation of the gums and resulting bone loss in more advanced cases is quite common in adults over the age of 50. Gum disease is worsened by poorly fitting tooth restorations, less than ideal dietary choices, and certain diseases like anemia, cancer, and diabetes. The best way to fight gum disease is to practice excellent oral hygiene and have regular dental exams and cleanings as recommended in your particular case.
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Tooth loss. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss; however, teeth which have broken due to old, large silver fillings or simple attrition require prompt attention to avoid unnecessary loss of teeth! Restoring a broken tooth is always better and less expensive than losing a tooth and later trying to replace it.
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Uneven jawbone. This common problem is a result of premature tooth loss. Once a tooth is lost, the bone previously around that root vanishes and teeth adjacent to and opposing the missing tooth will shift. This causes an uneven bite and places for food and bacteria to become trapped.
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Oral cancer. Routine examinations are essential to identify possible cancerous conditions in the mouth. Always report unusual lumps or bumps or discolorations to your dentist or hygienists promptly!
So what is the best way to maintain your good oral health? It’s the same regardless of your age!
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Brush at least twice a day with good quality toothpaste as recommended by your dentist or hygienist. The most important time to brush is just before bed!!
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Floss or otherwise thoroughly clean between your teeth at least one time each day.
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Visit your dentist or hygienist on a regular basis as recommended by them for regular cleanings and oral examinations.
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Use appropriate rinses or fluorides or other such adjuncts as recommended by your dental professionals.
