Research shows that older people now keep their teeth longer than people of the same age did before. Older people are not only keeping their teeth longer, they are also retaining more teeth as they go into their old age.
If you are over 50 years old, you should feel celebratory about this piece of information. This is not to say, though, that you should stop paying regular visits to your dentist. People over 50 still have to deal with certain dental issues.
Cavities
People over 50 can get tooth decay. As you become older, your teeth become more prone to cavity. You can get cavities at the root, around your dental fillings, and even in areas that were never really a problem in the past.
The Solution: Make sure that you are getting enough fluoride in your water, in your toothpaste, and in your mouthwash. People now recognize the importance of fluoride in dental care. Almost all areas in the United States now have fluoridated water. If you do not have access to fluoridated tap water, ask your dentist how you can best incorporate more fluoride in your oral care routine. He may recommend a stronger fluoride treatment for you.
Dry Mouth
Saliva offers great protection against cavities. It contains phosphate and calcium that keep your teeth from demineralization.
As you age, you tend to salivate less for a variety of reasons. You may be a smoker. You may be taking maintenance or prescription medicines that hamper saliva production. You may suffer from dry mouth, a condition that affects more and more people over 50. Dry and cracked lips, an uncomfortable sticky sensation in your mouth, difficulty swallowing, parched throatÉ these are the more common signs of dry mouth. If you salivate less, you become more prone to tooth decay.
The Solution: You can take certain measures to produce more saliva. Cultivate the habit of sipping water throughout the day. Chew sugar-free gum or mints that contain xylitol. Ask your dentist if he can prescribe a saliva substitute, or a similar formulation that stimulates saliva production.
Gum Disease
Do you have inflamed gums that tend to bleed easily? You may have gingivitis or gum disease. If you do not get immediate treatment for gingivitis, the condition may degenerate into periodontitis, a condition where your gums pull away from your teeth, creating pockets that are highly prone to infection. Periodontitis weakens the bones in your jaws. It also leads to tooth loss.
The Solution: Make time to visit your dentist more often. Get prophylaxis for your teeth. Have your gums checked. Frequent dental visits ensure that you get to address problems as they arise.
Oral Cancer
The incidence of oral cancer is higher for people over 50 than it is for younger individuals. Age, heavy use of alcohol, and excessive smoking are significant risk factors for oral cancer.
The Solution: As in all forms of cancer, the most effective means of survival for oral cancer is early detection. Make sure that your dental examination includes a test for oral cancer. Your dentist should check your jaw, throat, soft tissues in your mouth, and your tongue for early signs of cancer.