As we age, our teeth and gums face new challenges, from dry mouth caused by medications to a higher risk of gum disease and oral infections. In fact, nearly 70% of adults over age 65 have gum disease, a condition that can lead to tooth loss and has been tied to heart disease and diabetes. That’s why preventive dental care for seniors matters more than ever.
Continue reading to get answers to the most common questions about senior dental health and simple, practical tips from the best dentist in Berkeley to help you or your loved ones protect their smile and health.
Why is Preventive Dental Care Important for Seniors?
As we age, our mouths undergo numerous changes, including years of wear and tear, medications that dry out saliva, and receding gums that expose the roots of our teeth, among other factors. All of these factors increase the likelihood of seniors developing gum disease, tooth decay that extends to the tooth root, and even tooth loss. Preventive dental care for seniors makes a huge difference. This includes regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleanings that help catch problems early.
These preventive dental visits also allow dentists to spot warning signs of health conditions linked to the mouth, like diabetes or heart disease. By making preventive dental visits a top priority, older adults can avoid more significant and expensive dental issues down the road.
How Often Should Seniors Visit the Dentist?
For most seniors, seeing an integrative family dentist every six months is the best way to stay ahead of dental problems, but some may need to go more often, especially if they have health issues like diabetes or chronic dry mouth. These regular visits are more than just a quick dental cleaning; they give your dentist a chance to remove tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach, which is especially helpful if arthritis or other conditions make it harder to clean your teeth at home. Even if you wear dentures or have dental implants, checkups are still important to make sure everything fits comfortably and isn’t causing pressure spots, irritation, or oral infections.
What Are the Most Common Dental Problems in Older Adults?
As we age, some dental issues become more common, and some may become more complicated:
- Gum disease, or periodontitis, is one of the biggest issues for older adults. It can be easy to ignore because it’s often painless at first, but over time, it can damage the bone around your teeth and lead to tooth loss.
- Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is another common problem that is often caused by medications for high blood pressure, depression, or other chronic conditions. Without enough saliva to wash away bacteria, the risk of cavities, oral thrush, and mouth sores goes up.
- Tooth sensitivity and root decay are common issues that seniors may face due to receding gums, which expose the softer root surfaces.
Can Seniors Still Get Cavities Even If They Wear Dentures or Have Dental Implants?
Even if you wear dentures or have dental implants, you’re not completely off the hook when it comes to cavities and other oral health issues. If you still have natural teeth, they are susceptible to tooth decay, especially around the gumline, where plaque tends to build up.
Additionally, if you wear full or partial dentures, those need daily cleaning to prevent infections like denture stomatitis, which can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the mouth. Fortunately, keeping up with your regular dental exams allows your dentist to check for sore spots from ill-fitting dentures, signs of oral fungal infections, and even early signs of oral cancer, which older folks are more at risk for.
Steps Seniors Take at Home to Protect Their Oral Health
Taking care of your mouth at home is one of the best ways to stay ahead of dental problems as you age:
- Start with a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric brush, which can help you clean your teeth and gums gently but more thoroughly, especially if your hands aren’t as steady as they used to be.
- Using an alcohol-free mouthwash can help keep your mouth fresh without drying it out, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps fight dry mouth, which many seniors deal with due to medications.
- Eating fewer sugary snacks and choosing foods rich in calcium, such as leafy greens, dairy products, and almonds, can help strengthen both your teeth and bones.
Finding the Best Dentist in Berkeley for Seniors
At Lifestyle Dentistry Berkeley, we believe your mouth is a gateway to your overall health, and Dr. Nisha Kalra embodies this philosophy with every patient she treats.
Whether it’s helping a child build healthy habits or identifying how systemic conditions like diabetes affect oral health, we treat you as a whole person, not just a set of teeth. Our calm, welcoming environment and integrative approach make it easier for families to prioritize their health together, one visit at a time.
Ready to ensure your dental health at any age by seeing the best dentist in Berkeley?
