Seniors and Dental Care

AS YOU AGE AND AS YOUR MEDICAL NEEDS CHANGE, YOUR DENTAL TREATMENT OPTIONS MAY CHANGE AS WELL

Conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, can affect your tolerance for anesthetics and some medications. To make sure the treatment choices are appropriate for you, always advise us of your medications and medical conditions. Certain changes to the teeth, gums, and salivary glands commonly occur.

These include:

RECEDING GUM LINES

As a person ages, their gums may begin to recede, exposing roots to harmful plaque, which advances tooth decay. We can diagnosis this condition and give you the tools and instructions to keep decay at a minimum.

DAMAGE TO FILLINGS

With the passing of time, older fillings can degenerate, developing tiny cracks where plaque, that cannot be removed by normal brushing and flossing, can flourish. During regular examinations and check-ups we can check for failing fillings and recommend treatment to avoid this problem.

DRY MOUTH

Medical disorders, medications such as diuretics, decongestants, or painkillers, and the aging process itself contribute to the decreased function of the salivary glands. Besides keeping the mouth moist, saliva also helps to keep teeth free from plaque and reduces oral acidity. As the amount of saliva decreases, plaque can accumulate more readily and cavities can form quicker. Careful, daily homecare is essential to keep plaque at a minimum. If you are still at risk for cavities we can help with other treatment options to help you keep your teeth for a lifetime.

GUM DISEASE

Poor dental hygiene and some medications can contribute to the gums separating from the teeth, which can create pockets for plaque to accumulate. This can further tooth decay. Resultant infections can damage and dissolve the bone supporting the teeth, leading to tooth loss.

WHAT ABOUT BRIDGES?

Unfortunately, tooth loss can occur with advancing age. We may recommend a bridge to replace missing teeth. A bridge ensures that teeth remain correctly aligned, normal eating and chewing abilities are maintained, and your smile is cosmetically pleasing.

TYPES OF BRIDGES

Fixed -- A prosthetic (artificial) tooth, connected to two crowns that are cemented to teeth on either side of the gap.

Resin Bonded -- Often used on the front teeth. Consists of concealed 'wings' that are cemented to both the artificial and natural teeth.

Cantilever -- Used when there are healthy teeth on only one side of a gap.

Other Options -- Implants - permanently installed artificial teeth connected to titanium bone screws anchored in the jawbone. -or- Full or Partial Dentures that can be connected to natural teeth or implants.