Dental Care for the Greatest Generation
Dental Care for the Greatest Generation
I had the honor of meeting former NBC anchor man, Tom Brokaw, at a recent dental conference in Las Vegas. In fact, I was privileged to speak to the crowd of hundreds of dental professionals from across the globe directly after Mr. Brokaw. His speech was riveting, and it made me realize, yet again, how much my generation of Baby Boomers, and subsequent generations, owe our seniors. Someone once said “Getting old isn’t for sissies,” but as we are all learning, if you take care of your body, and your teeth, they will last a lot longer, and your quality of life will be infinitely better.
Prevention Works
When it comes to oral health for those in their 60’s and up, there are several conditions that need to be considered, some of which are a result of the natural aging process, but others, through awareness, and the proper preventive steps, can be avoided, or effectively managed.
The worst thing that anyone can do, at any age, as I mentioned in my last blog, is to ignore dental decay and tooth infection until it is too late to save the tooth. I don’t think I can say it enough “brush regularly, with the right technique, floss, and get your regular dental check-ups.” And if you find out you have a cavity, or gum disease, take care of it immediately before it requires a more complex and expensive procedure.
Seniors are more likely to have gum disease, which can occur due to inappropriate dental hygiene, but also, poor nutrition, poorly fitting dental appliances and other chronic diseases such as diabetes or cancer. As we age, the jaw and other supporting bone structures may move and contribute to the incidence of tooth decay.
Warning Signs
There are some specific warning signs that I urge all patients to look for, when it comes to oral cancer. We do an exam on every patient at each check-up, and I will discuss this disease in more depth in my next blog. Please be advised that any mouth sores, swelling or bumps should be addressed immediately. Other signs of dental distress in older adults are tooth sensitivity or pain, teeth grinding, loose teeth, jaw popping, extensive thirst, and swallowing or chewing difficulties which may indicate dry mouth syndrome. Improper maintenance of dentures or dental bridges can contribute to some of these problems. Like any other part of your body, the aging process brings changes, and new challenges. But all of these are manageable through prevention, prompt treatment, and open communication with your dental team. Let us know the changes you are going through and we’ll be there to maintain the brightest smiles for the Greatest Generation!
