There are a number of oral health issues which can arise as we age, that aren't typically seen in younger people. Here, our Surrey dentists share some of the oral health issues you should watch for as you get older.
Regardless of age, we all want a bright and healthy smile. To help keep your mouth healthy, here are a few conditions you should be aware of as you get older, and what you should do if you spot the symptoms.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, progresses slowly and gradually without patients even knowing there's an issue. Without treatment this condition could cause serious damage to your gums and jawbone. In severe cases periodontal disease can lead to the loss of teeth.
Not only is periodontal disease bad news for your smile, a number of serious health conditions have also been linked to this condition, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems.
Visiting your dentist twice yearly and maintaining a good at-home oral hygiene routine between visits, will benefit your smile and your overall health!
Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Changes in the way dentures fit
- Tender or swollen gums
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Bad breath, or taste in the mouth
- Bite changes
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment to see your dentist. Our team of dental professionals at Clover Hills Dental will work with you to help you to restore good health to your mouth.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a result of your salivary glands not making enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. This relatively common condition can be caused by a number of prescription medications, or radiation therapy to the head or neck area. Those people suffering from dry mouth face an increased risk of tooth decay. To help protect your teeth and gums, see your dentist regularly if you suffer from dry mouth. Your dentist will be able to help keep your teeth healthy, and suggest strategies to help you deal with the symptoms of dry mouth.
Tobacco
Smoking stains teeth like nothing else, turning them yellow or even brown, but that's not the worst of it. People who use tobacco face an increased risk of developing oral cancer and other potentially serious conditions. To help reduce your chances of developing oral and pharyngeal (throat) cancers, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and mouth sores or lesions that do not heal (leukoplakia), quitting smoking and other tobacco use is an important step.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer screenings at your dental office can help to protect your overall health as well as your smile. No one knows your mouth as well as you and your dentist. Regular oral cancer screenings done by dentist or hygienist, give your dental professionals an opportunity to thoroughly examine your mouth for early signs of oral cancers.
Restoring Your Smile
Teeth will naturally darken as we age, but some foods and lifestyle choices may also cause teeth to stain or discolour. If your smile isn't as bright as it once was, there are a variety of restorative and cosmetic treatments available from your dentist to help lighten your teeth and restore your smile.