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As important as proper dental care is for children and adults, it is even more important for the elderly to visit with their dentist regularly. Teeth and gum tissue age just like the rest of your body, putting older adults at a higher risk for a long list of dental conditions. Here are three reasons oral health becomes even more important as you age, and why regular dental care is crucial for seniors.  

3 Reasons Dental Care Is Important for The Elderly

1. Periodontal Disease Is Common

Periodontal disease, a condition that occurs as a result of oral bacteria inflaming the gum tissue, is incredibly common in the elderly, affecting more than 70% of adults over the age of 65. Fortunately, periodontal disease can be treated effectively by cleaning the teeth and identifying areas of loose gum tissue, helping people to prevent tooth and bone loss. 

2. Infections Can Be Serious

dentistOlder individuals are also at a higher risk for secondary infections, especially if their health is already compromised because of other medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, or arthritis. Unfortunately, oral bacteria can eventually seep into the bloodstream, where it can travel to other parts of the body and cause dangerous inflammation and abscesses. 

3. The Mouth Becomes Drier

The elderly also tend to have problems with saliva production, which can be complicated by the fact that several medications lead to the condition. Since saliva helps to rinse the teeth and neutralize acids, regular dental care is crucial for detecting and resolving tooth decay in the elderly. Dentists can also talk with patients about their daily water consumption and whether or not their local water supply is fluoridated, helping seniors to fend off dry mouth and cavities. 

 

Since dental care concerns can vary significantly from person to person, regular checkups with a dentist are crucial. To learn more about the health of your teeth, talk with the professionals at Helmbrecht Dental in Fairbanks, AK. In addition to offering preventative and restorative dentistry, Dr. Michael J. Helmbrecht and Dr. Ecsile Chang will help you beautify your smile with a variety of different cosmetic dental services. To learn more about how they will help, send them a note online or call (907) 456-1237.

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