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Even if your oral hygiene practices are top-notch, you’ll likely face more dental care issues as you age. That’s why regular visits to the dentist become even more important the older you get. Here are a few common issues that seniors frequently face.

4 Dental Care Concerns for Seniors

1. Receding Gums

When your gums recede, the tissue pulls back from your teeth. The resulting gaps become a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause gum disease and damage to the tooth’s root. In addition to diligent dental care and regular visits to the dentist, quitting tobacco products and cutting down on sugary foods can help prevent gum recession.

2.  Tooth Decay

While tooth decay is a common dental issue for people of all ages, it can become especially problematic for seniors with arthritis or dementia. Both conditions make the task of brushing and flossing physically difficult, which can lead to an increase in decay and cavities.

3. Dry Mouth

Hawaii dental careSaliva helps prevent cavities and tooth decay by rinsing away food and bacteria and neutralizing damaging acids. Dry mouth is a condition in which your salivary glands do not produce enough saliva. A number of problems common to seniors, including medication side effects, sleeping with an open mouth, and not drinking enough fluids, can lead to this condition.

4. Gum Disease

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Caused by a buildup in plaque, it’s a common problem for older adults with poor dental hygiene practices. If left untreated, it progresses to its severest form, periodontitis.

 

If you’re a senior looking for top-quality dental care, contact the office of Carter S. Yokoyama, DDS. Based in Kailua-Kona, HI, this general dentistry practice provides a wide range of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services to cover all your needs. Plus, Dr. Yokoyama enjoys pampering his patients with amenities like hand wax treatments and noise-canceling headphones. Visit their website to learn more about available services, and call (808) 322-0101 to set up your first appointment.

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