As you get older…

by Dr. Zenon Farian, DDS

As you grow older, your mind may be preoccupied with the health of your bones, heart or brain. However, our team will tell you that keeping your teeth healthy is an equally important part of the aging process.

Older adults are at increased risk for a variety of oral health conditions, which makes it essential for you to speak with your dentist to create a prevention plan that’s best for you.

Oral Health Conditions Associated with Aging

Just as the rest of your body continues to change as you age, your mouth changes, too. Certain conditions become more likely to develop as you reach older adulthood, including:

  • Dry mouth. Although your salivary glands continue to pro­duce saliva as you get older, medications and chronic health problems often cause dry mouth. Patients who experience dry mouth have an increased risk for tooth decay.
  • Root decay. Your teeth have lasted you a lifetime, but im­proper nutrition or cleaning may lead to decay at the roots of your teeth.
  • Diminished sense of taste. Your eyesight and hearing aren’t the only senses affected by aging. The ability to taste natu­rally diminishes over the course of older adulthood.
  • Tissue inflammation. Are your gums tender, bleeding, or inflamed? Tissue inflammation may indicate gum disease.
  • Oral cancer. Risk for most cancers increases with age, and oral cancer is no exception. Older adults are at increased risk for oral cancer compared to younger individuals.

Ways You Can Prevent Dental Problems

Fortunately, many age-related oral health problems are pre­ventable. Begin by improving your diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Choosing water over coffee or soda will keep your teeth whiter and cavity-free. Also remember to practice good brushing habits to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is vitally important when you reach retirement age. Your dentist is familiar with your oral health and may be the first person to notice a sore, discolored patch, inflammation, or other abnormality that indicates oral cancer or gum disease.

If you’re experiencing any problems with dental health, let your dentist know immediately. Together, you can troubleshoot solutions and create a plan that keeps your mouth and gums healthy.

Call Farian Dental Care to schedule a consultation today!

Keep Smiling. And make it a good one!

Dr. Zenon Farian, DDS

Sponsored by

Farian Dental Care
229 E. Wallings Rd., Suite 100
Broadview Hts., OH 44147
440-526-9100

Opinions and claims expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ScripType Publishing.