Tooth loss is not part of the aging process, it is more common in older adults than it is in younger individuals. This is because of changes in the soft tissues of the mouth, a less effective immune system, increased systemic diseases, and a person’s decreased ability to perform sufficient oral hygiene and self dental care. This decreased ability can be due to any number of causes. Some common causes include strokes, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or even Alzheimer’s. Another cause of tooth loss in older adults has absolutely nothing to do with a person’s abilities but has everything to do with the number of prescription and over-the-counter medicines that a person may be taking. These medications commonly cause dry mouth which can contribute to dental problems.
There are a lot of reasons behind those statistics, and increased dental issues in older people are often the result of one or several of the following:
• Dry mouth is caused by an inadequate flow of saliva which leaves teeth more vulnerable to decay and gum tissue more susceptible to periodontal disease.
• A lack of good oral hygiene which may be the result of stiffness or arthritis in the hands making brushing and flossing more difficult.
• Hormonal changes can lead to susceptibility to gum inflammations and infections.
• Certain illnesses like diabetes can lead to more cavities.
• Receding gum tissue which exposes the tooth root leaving it vulnerable to decay.
• If brushing and flossing have become difficult, try switching to a battery-operated toothbrush and using interdental flossers which hold the dental floss for you or switch to an automatic flosser which actually does the work.
• If gum recession is an issue, a dentist can perform a soft tissue graft which will result in the gum tissue once again snuggling up against the tooth and protecting the vulnerable root.
In general, with age, teeth become less white and more brittle. They lose some of their luster and are just less perfect than when the teeth were 20 years old. These things cannot be prevented but the general level of staining can be reduced if a person avoids tobacco, coffee, and tea. Like finger nails that thicken and yellow with age, teeth are the same way. In teeth, the underlying dentin can darken and even yellow because it is thickening. The enamel on a person’s teeth is somewhat transparent and so this shows through.
Another side effect of aging is that the teeth can be become brittle. When the teeth are brittle, they are susceptible to cracks, fractures, and shearing. With time, the enamel on the teeth is subjected to wear due to chewing, grinding, and acidic foods. The biggest cause of tooth loss in older adults has to do with the decline in the fiber content and blood vessels of the gum tissues.
Even though dental issues do become more prevalent as we age and having a close relationship with a dentist becomes more important, poor dental health or problems with our teeth and gums do not have to be a part of the aging process.
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