As a result of the improvement in oral health care and increase in awareness over the last 50 years about the importance of oral health, older adults now enjoy higher teeth retention rates than the people in the past. However, simply because an older adult has made it through many years with most of the natural teeth intact, doesn’t mean that the oral health hurdle has entirely been cleared. Keeping one’s oral health in good shape during old age is what gets more and more difficult over time. That is why good oral care and hygiene are so important for this life stage. Read on to learn about the consequences of poor dental care in your later years!
Older Adults Are More Susceptible To Oral Disease
Older adults who have kept many of their natural teeth are now at a life stage where they face a higher risk of gum disease as well as other oral health complications as a result of their previous dental history. The immune system can also weaken with age, chronic stress and poor sleep. If an older adult’s immune system is impaired, they produce a lower number of immune cells. This reduces their ability to fight and recover from oral disease and infections. Other age-related factors include dry mouth due to decreased salivary gland function which can increase their susceptibility to experiencing tooth decay and many other oral conditions.
Negative Impacts of Poor Oral Health
When older adults experience poor oral health, this can affect many other areas in their life. In certain cases, this brings about a domino effect of negative health consequences. The older person with oral conditions may experience the following:
- Dry mouth caused by decreased salival function or medications, which can lead to higher levels of oral bacteria, disease and plaque.
- Halitosis, also known as bad breath, can become a barrier to social participation which leads to increased loneliness and social isolation.
- Higher levels of bacteria in the mouth can lead to aspiration pneumonia which is the leading cause of death in weaker older adults.
- Oral pain and jaw-related difficulties, like TMJ, can restrict chewing efficiency which can result in digestive issues, poor nutritional intake, and reduced overall weight, energy, body health, and strength.
- Poor oral health and gum disease has been related to older adults having a higher risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes.
With so many potential issues, it is no wonder you should take care of your dental health in old age. Practice good dental hygiene habits daily and visit the dentist for checkups regularly. This will ensure that you keep good teeth even in your older years and you can enjoy your food and social life just like before.
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Lakeside At Mallard Landing is a world-class retirement community. We offer the perfect combination of quality care and an active lifestyle. Here in our community, you can lead your dream lifestyle. Feel free to contact us for more information.
