Carolina Family Dentistry Unveils 5 Warning Signs of Failing Dental Health in Senior Citizens

Carolina Family Dentistry has identified the five most prevalent indicators of deteriorating dental health in older adults.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES, June 3, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- In its ongoing commitment to enhancing oral health among senior citizens, Carolina Family Dentistry has identified the five most prevalent indicators of deteriorating dental health in older adults. Recognizing these signs is crucial for preserving dental wellness and overall quality of life.

Structural Integrity of Teeth

Tooth Decay
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that nearly one in five seniors in the U.S. suffers from untreated tooth decay. While sugary and acidic foods are the most commonly known culprits, aging factors such as thinning enamel, root exposure, along with medication side effects including dry mouth, harmful bacteria in the mouth and weaker immune systems greatly increase risks. Additionally, compromised manual dexterity hinders effective brushing and flossing, increasing the risk of decay. Why is this important? Simply put, everyday events such as being able to enjoy eating and chewing favorite foods, laughing and smiling without being self conscious are much more difficult to do with weakened and damaged teeth.

Professional cleanings are essential in combating tooth decay. Dental teams provide more than just cleaning—they offer personalized oral hygiene regimens tailored to each patient’s needs, effectively removing plaque and tartar buildup and strengthening enamel to fortify teeth against decay. Essentially making sure your teeth are able to function for a lifetime.

Missing Teeth
The inevitability of tooth loss as humans age underscores the importance of proactive dental care. Approximately 20% of seniors aged 65 and above have lost all their natural teeth, which poses challenges beyond aesthetics. Missing teeth can impair speech and chewing and lead to long-term jaw complications, necessitating prompt attention.

Restorative dentistry offers solutions such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures to restore function and aesthetics for seniors with missing teeth.

Gum Health Management and Treatment

Receding Gums
Natural aging can lead to receding gums, exposing tooth roots, and increasing sensitivity. Poor brushing habits or teeth grinding can exacerbate this condition, increasing vulnerability to decay and escalating the risk of gum disease and tooth loss if left untreated.

Specialized gum disease therapy uses targeted interventions to effectively address receding gums. These techniques are tailored to individual needs and aim to restore gum health, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further complications.

Gum and Periodontal Disease
Plaque buildup is a persistent threat that catalyzes gum disease, starting with reversible gingivitis and potentially progressing to irreversible periodontitis and destruction of jaw bone that holds teeth in the mouth. Without intervention, periodontitis can erode soft tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss—a serious concern among aging adults. Think of it as the foundation of a beautiful house being washed away. As bone washes away around teeth, the foundation is weakened or gone and tooth loss may be inevitable. Furthermore periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease and can affect overall health.

Advanced periodontal infection therapy addresses gum disease, managing it and preserving teeth AND its supporting structure through personalized treatment plans. Continuously monitoring and follow up of gum issues is very important as there is no cure for periodontal disease.

Dry Mouth Issues in Seniors

Dry Mouth
Although not an inherent consequence of aging, seniors are more susceptible to dry mouth, often due to medication side effects or respiratory issues. Reduced saliva production accelerates dental problems, creating a high decay risk, pain, and ultimately weak teeth.

Comprehensive dental checkups can identify the underlying causes of dry mouth. Tailored solutions, including therapeutic mouthwashes and saliva substitutes, help alleviate discomfort and promote oral health.

Schedule a consultation with Carolina Family Dentistry today for further information on senior dental health needs. Teeth should last a lifetime if properly managed and cared for.

About Carolina Family Dentistry:

Carolina Family Dentistry, led by Dr. Ron Banik, is committed to delivering state-of-the-art dentistry with personalized attention and integrity in a familial setting. Devoted to patient education and empowerment, Dr. Banik and his very experienced team aim to cultivate enduring relationships and provide personalized care. They strive to serve the tri-county area, maintaining and enhancing their stellar reputation in the community.

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