Table of contents:
- Oral and dental problems that often affect the elderly
- 1. Teeth blackened
- 2.The root of the tooth is rotting (root decay)
- 3. Oral thrush
- 4. Dry mouth and cavities
- 5. Gum disease
- 6. Cancer
- Tips for caring for the oral health of the elderly
The Harvard Health Publishing website reports that three-quarters of elderly 65-year-olds have worn dentures. Various oral and dental problems are the cause. So, what oral and dental problems are prone to attack the elderly?
Oral and dental problems that often affect the elderly
Take a look at your grandparents' teeth, most of them may have lost a lot of teeth or even completely. Oral and dental problems are prone to attacking people over the age of 60.
These dental and oral problems occur due to poor oral and dental hygiene, smoking habits, and insufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D.
There are several oral and dental problems that commonly affect seniors, including:
1. Teeth blackened
Your teeth are protected by enamel or enamel, which is the strong, protective outer layer of teeth. Over time, the enamel can erode and reveal a yellowish layer of dentin.
Not only yellowing, the coating can also turn black. The causes, ranging from food, coffee, and smoking habits. Although oral and dental problems in the elderly are common, blackened teeth can also result from cavities.
2.The root of the tooth is rotting (root decay)
Continuous exposure to acids from food and drinking coffee can cause tooth decay. As a result, the gum tissue shrinks and the roots of the teeth become exposed.
When the root of the tooth does not have enamel to protect it, it is susceptible to infection and damage. As a result, the roots of the teeth rot.
Habits from a young age such as frequent drinking of coffee, smoking and eating acidic foods can increase the risk of tooth root decay in old age.
3. Oral thrush
Oral thrush and dry mouth is one of the most common dental and oral problems in the elderly. Oral thrush causes white patches in the mouth that feel sore due to a yeast infection.
This condition generally occurs in the elderly with diabetes or vitamin deficiency.
Apart from health problems, oral thrush also susceptible to attacking parents who take antibiotics, wear dentures, and have a smoking habit.
4. Dry mouth and cavities
Dry mouth occurs when the production of saliva is insufficient. The causes are various, ranging from smoking, using drugs for hypertension, and even drinking less water.
According to the American Dental Association, dry mouth problems in the elderly that are not treated properly can lead to cavities. The reason is that the limitation of saliva creates an acidic environment in the mouth so that oral bacteria develop actively and damage teeth.
5. Gum disease
Poor oral hygiene at a young age leads to plaque buildup. Over time, the plaque will become a nest for bacteria to multiply. The bacteria can then irritate the gums, making them swollen, red, and bleeding.
If left untreated, this disease can destroy the gums, bones, and even ligaments that support the teeth, causing them to fall out. Teeth and mouth problems are what cause many elderly people to be toothless.
6. Cancer
Cancer cells can attack any part of the body, from the mouth, tongue, to the throat. Most of these diseases are detected in people aged 60 years and over.
Abnormal cell development can be caused by dental and gum disease due to poor oral hygiene in the elderly.
Symptoms initially appear in the form of canker sores, which may appear frequently or do not go away. Then, it causes excruciating pain that interferes with activities, eating and talking.
Tips for caring for the oral health of the elderly
In order to be free from oral and dental problems, the elderly certainly have to keep them clean. Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy and your mouth always clean.
- Brush your teeth twice a day regularly, which is 30 minutes after eating and before bed. Use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Clean leftovers with dental floss.
- Reduce consumption of sweet, sour and coffee foods and stop smoking.
- After eating, make it a habit to clean your teeth with a mouth rinse of water.
- Check your oral health at least every 6 months. Consult with your dentist whether you need the use of certain drugs.
