Ageing significantly affects many aspects of our overall health – gum health isn’t any different. What increases the risk of elderly gum disease? How does dental care for seniors differ from that of a younger person? Learn more about periodontal care for the elderly here.
Several factors contribute to an increased risk of gum disease in older adults:
- Reduced Saliva Flow: Saliva naturally moistens our mouths and neutralises acids. As we age, saliva production may decrease, increasing the likelihood of bacteria buildup and gum disease development, as well as dental decay
- Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions prevalent in older adults, like diabetes or heart disease, can compromise the body’s immune system and its ability to fight off gum infections.
- Medications: Certain medications for chronic conditions can also reduce saliva flow or cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease.
- Accumulated Years of Plaque and Tartar: Years of plaque and tartar buildup create a haven for bacteria to thrive, leading to gum irritation and infection if no regular maintenance was done
- Weakened Immune Response: The immune system naturally weakens with age, making it more challenging to fight off gum infections.
In addition to this, women who are at their menopausal stage may also be predisposed to elderly gum disease. During menopause, the oestrogen level drops, which affects gum health and the bones that support the teeth.
Geriatric Dentistry: Treatment Options for Gum Disease
Periodontal dental care, including treatment options for elderly gum disease, depends on several factors. What’s your general health status? Are you taking maintenance medicines? How severe is your periodontal disease? Answers to these questions may affect the following treatment options for elderly gum disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is a common non-surgical treatment for gum disease. A dental hygienist or gum specialist carefully removes plaque and tartar from tooth and root surfaces below the gum line. This helps the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotics: For more advanced cases, antibiotics, either oral or topical (applied directly to the gums), can help eliminate harmful bacteria in conjunction with deep cleaning.
- Surgical Treatments: In severe gum disease, where significant gum tissue and bone loss have occurred, surgical procedures like gum grafts or bone grafts may be necessary to restore oral health.
- Maintenance Dental Care: Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for managing gum disease and preventing recurrence.
Dental Care for Seniors: How to Prevent Elderly Gum Disease
Generally, preventing elderly gum disease is similar to preventing gum disease in younger people. However, there may be differences to account for the changes they are experiencing. Here are some oral healthcare tips while ageing:
- Practise Good Oral Hygiene Diligently: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and use special interdental brushes once a day to remove debris in between teeth.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of elderly gum disease but also cancer. If you are smoking, it’s best to quit. If you’re having problems quitting, don’t hesitate to consult your physician.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help stimulate saliva production and wash away bacteria.
- Watch Your Diet: Limit sugary drinks and snacks, which can feed harmful bacteria in your mouth. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Finally, schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings, especially if you have any existing health conditions. Appointments are also a great opportunity to talk more about dental care for seniors; for instance, what can be done if you have dry mouth.
Conclusion
Maintaining good oral health is crucial at any age, but it requires extra attention as we get older. Elderly individuals are more susceptible to gum disease due to factors like reduced saliva flow, chronic health conditions, and medications. However, with diligent oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and appropriate treatments, seniors can effectively manage and prevent gum disease, ensuring a healthy and confident smile for years to come.
References:
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21482-gum-periodontal-disease#management-and-treatment Accessed October 2, 2024
Oral Health for Older Adults: Quick Tips – https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/oral-health-older-adults-quick-tips Accessed October 2, 2024
Aging changes in teeth and gums, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000951.htm Accessed October 2, 2024
7 Menopause & Oral Health FAQs, https://mypenndentist.org/dental-tips/2024/05/02/oral-health-and-menopause/
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums, https://www.singhealth.com.sg/news/singapore-health/maintaining-healthy-teeth-and-gums Accessed October 2, 2024
