Did you know that about half of American adults have a chronic condition called gum disease? However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 2 out of 3 seniors (about 68 percent) have an advanced form of gum disease.
In the 2020 census, nearly 56 million adults over the age of 65 were living in the United States, which accounted for about 17 percent of the total population. In other words, 1 in 6 adults were seniors.
Why does this condition afflict seniors in particular? Keep reading to learn more about this infection, risk factors, and what can be done to prevent it from harming your smile as you grow older.
What Is Gum Disease?
At first glance, gum disease may seem mild or not worth worrying about, but studies have linked this condition to heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, and even certain kinds of cancers. As a result, it’s important to avoid gum disease as much as possible.
What Are Risk Factors for Gum Disease in Seniors?
Unfortunately, the elderly are at a higher risk than younger adults for gum disease, and there are several reasons why this happens.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Some seniors are able to stay active and mentally sharp, but others aren’t so fortunate. Some decline in mental health and mobility, affecting their ability to take proper care of their oral health.
Hormonal Changes in Women
As women get older, they enter menopause, which comes with hormonal changes. These various levels can not only affect their temperament and cause hot flashes but also alter their ability to fight infections like gum disease.
Smoking
Although smoking is less common than it used to be decades ago, some seniors have continued this habit due to addiction. Especially after years of smoking, seniors are at a higher risk of developing gum disease and suffering from tooth loss as a result.
Side Effects of Certain Medications
The elderly tend to take more medications, which can come with side effects. Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable or annoying—it can allow inflammation-causing bacteria thrive and infect the gums and bone tissue.
Diabetes
Diabetes and gum disease have a chicken-egg relationship, where one fuels the other. Those with poorly managed diabetes are more likely to struggle with infections like gum disease, and those with advanced gum disease are more likely to have poorly managed diabetes because of sugar consumption.
How to Prevent Gum Disease for Seniors
Gum disease treatment can keep the infection under control, but prevention is the best way to deal with it. To maintain a healthy, infection-free mouth, seniors need to do (or their caretakers need to make sure they do) the following:
- Go to regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist’s office.
- Brush and floss teeth daily.
- Lower the amount of sugar they consume.
- Drink lots of water throughout the day.
- Stop smoking.
Ultimately, if you’re approaching your senior years, it doesn’t mean that gum disease is inevitable, but it does mean that you should be on guard and actively prevent gum disease. That way, you can live your golden years with a strong smile and better health overall!
About the Practice
Sparkling Smiles Fayetteville is happy to serve patients of basically any age, including seniors. In addition to handling complex repairs for lost or damaged teeth, Dr. Dave Lee and Dr. Lauren Lee Polito encourage basic preventive care and regular visits and make appointments as pleasant and productive as possible. Would you like to schedule an appointment at Sparkling Smiles Fayetteville? Contact our practice online or call 770-679-2109.