The average life expectancy for the United States is rising. We
would like to help you maintain your own teeth as long as you live.
Certain conditions can occur in seniors that would not normally
be found in younger individuals and that can affect the health
of their teeth, as well as their overall physical well being. The
following conditions that may be of concern and which should be
evaluated by us at Bridgeview Dental are:
Oral Longevity
(pdf)
| Dry
Mouth (Xerostomia): |
 A
condition common to the elderly whereby saliva flow is decreased.
The causes can include certain medical conditions, certain
medications such as antihistamines, pain relievers and decongestants,
among others. Other causes can be ill fitting dental appliances
such as full or partial dentures. If a person allows this
continued dry mouth condition to persist, there is an increase
in the level of dental decay. The reason
for this is that saliva has a natural bathing effect on
teeth that helps decrease the level of bacteria from forming.
There is also a greater risk for periodontal disease due
to the decreased level of saliva. Patients are urged to
see their dentist and/or physician to evaluate this condition.
Do you have dry mouth?
(pdf)
Oral
Moisturizers (pdf)
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| Tooth
Wear and Excessive Staining |
 Excessive
tooth wear can cause loss of height of teeth which can lead
to TMG pain. Teeth can also stain, because
areas of enamel wear are excellent places for debris
and plaque to accumulate. Also,
as the protective enamel wear occurs, the yellowish dentin
is more apparent causing teeth to appear darker.
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|
Dental Decay (Root Surface) |
 As
one ages, the incidence for decay can increase. The exposure of the tooth's root surface
occurs in seniors primarily from gum tissue receding.
Root surfaces do not have a protective enamel
layer and are primarily composed of softer cementum, which
easily decays. Plaque and bacterial accumulation can collect
on these surfaces increasing the risk for this type of decay.
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| Gum
Disease (Periodontal Disease) |
The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease.
Bacteria create toxins which inflame and irritate gum tissue.
Over the years, a slow progressive detachment occurs that
affects the supporting bone, which dissolves. Tooth loss
eventually results, especially if left untreated. The elderly
are more prone to this condition as a result of smoking,
poor diets, poor oral hygiene habits and certain medical
conditions. Increased risk factors include diabetes, age,
and hereditary factors. It is imperative that you have regular
dental checkups to determine if you have this condition.
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| When
is it time for a new denture? |
 As
the years pass, the tissue and bone may shrink slightly.
The dentures will then loosen. Also, as one loses or gains
weight, one may notice that the denture may loosen. Dentures,
if the dentist advises, can be relined to help tighten them.
However, if their bases are too far gone, a new one may
need to be fabricated.
As always, even a full denture wearer should visit the
dentist on a regular basis to get an evaluation of the palate,
tongue, and surrounding tissue for any problems. Sore spots
should not be ignored. See the dentist if adjustments are
needed. Some people have trouble eating and some may have
repeated sores, which can be quite painful. We can help
with problems like this.
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| Denture
Care |
Some frequently asked questions are:
What is the best way to get used to my new dentures?
As with any new appliance, dentures may feel quite odd.
They may cause increased saliva flow or they may alter speech.
One should start by cutting food into small pieces, avoid
hot foods, and avoid hard foods until the tissue, where
the denture rests, becomes used to the new teeth. As time
goes by, one will become accustomed to them.
Do I brush them like real teeth?
No, dentures should be cleaned, if possible, after each
meal. The best way is to remove them and rinse them. Brushing the dentures
is advised, as well
as rinsing the mouth to clean it of any debris. If some
natural teeth do remain, brushing them is suggested. Always
soak dentures at night after brushing them. Over the counter
cleaning agents are available. Keeping the dentures soaked
prolongs them from warping. It is also much healthier to
keep the teeth out overnight to avoid excessive pressure
on the soft tissue and bone. Always remember to brush your
tongue and lightly brush the gums with a soft toothbrush.
Special denture brushes should be used on the dentures.
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|
 The
problem of broken down or missing teeth can be easily remedied
in most cases. However, ignoring these dental problems may
cause additional tooth and bone loss which can lead to more
expensive treatments.
Replacing missing teeth will help you to keep and maintain
the health of your smile for a long time. Gum
disease is the leading cause of missing teeth in adults.
It can be prevented or stopped by keeping your mouth as
clean as possible through daily brushing, flossing, and
regular check-ups.
Gaps between teeth can occur naturally or when teeth have
been lost. A gap between the front two teeth, called a diastema,
is natural for some. Many choose to have it closed for cosmetic
reasons although a diastema poses no harm to oral health.
People often live with spaces between their back teeth for
years because they do not cause a cosmetic problem. However,
these spaces can lead to dental problems.
Dental Implants
(pdf)
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