What Happens To Teeth As You Age?

As you age, as you know, your health needs change. But did you stop to think that this includes the needs of your mouth? In addition to the changes happening within your body with hormone levels, strength, and general wear and tear, the medications you take can also have an impact on your oral health in particular. 

By the year 2030, those over 65 will make up more than 20% of the population. If you fall into that demographic, then this post is for you! If you have concerns about aging and the health of your mouth, give Josey Lane a call today. We can help you discern what is normal and what needs to be addressed. We’re here for your mouth through all stages of life! 

As the 65-and-up population continues to grow, it’s important that Baby Boomers are aware of the changes that happen in their mouths and how to tweak the oral hygiene routine that ensure you keep your teeth for years to come. 

Dry mouth 

As you get older—and wiser—you may have thought that you’re not as likely to get cavities. After all, you know how cavities occur, so why would you get them now? The number-one reason for an increase in the number of cavities as we age, however, is dry mouth.  

The decrease in saliva (which we know as “dry mouth”) increases the likelihood of cavities since saliva acts to wash away food debris and reduce plaque. Severe dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not treated.  

You might think that dry mouth is a result of aging; however, dry mouth normally is a result of prescription medications or other conditions you might have been diagnosed with. More than 500 medications list dry mouth as a side-effect. There’s a high likelihood that you could be on one of those prescriptions. 

It’s important to tell us about the medications you’re on so we can help relieve any symptoms associated with the treatment. If you are suffering from dry mouth, always carry water with you and don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Also chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva production. Addressing dry mouth is important to ensure you are able to keep all your teeth! 

Mouth cancer 

With the average age of diagnosis at 62, mouth cancer is something your dentist will be on the lookout for at your annual visits. Unfortunately, the early stages of oral cancer are generally pain and symptom free; therefore, it’s crucial to be examined for early signs. If you are experiencing open sores that won’t heal, or changes in the lips, tongue or lining of the mouth, or new red and white patches, it is important you seek care immediately.  

Paying for dental care 

After retirement you might be concerned about how you’ll be paying for your dental care. Since dental benefits are usually linked to your job, you could feel lost when you enter the retirement world. If you are Medicare eligible, it’s important to remember that Medicare does not cover routine dental care. However, there are many supplemental plans that can be purchased, along with Medicare Advantage plans, that do cover these services.  

Antibiotics and dental care 

If you have a heart condition or an artificial joint it’s important to tell your dentist prior to your appointment. Since both of these conditions have a high risk of infection associated with it, your dentist might require you to start an antibiotic prior to your appointment. This is done solely as a precautionary measure, but once again highlights how important it is that your dentist have your full medical history. 

Dentures 

For many of us, dentures are necessary even when we’ve taken excellent care of our teeth. If you start to have severe toothaches, gum inflammation, or shifting or loose teeth, it might be time to have the conversation with your dentist about dentures. There are options such as full or partial dentures, implants, and mini implants that are all available when the time comes. It’s important to not put off the conversation with since poor tooth quality can have such a major consequence on your quality of life.