Oral Health and Natural Teeth in Later Life
Proper oral hygiene enables us to enjoy our natural teeth well into our senior years. However, despite clear advancements in dental care, a significant percentage of adults over the age of 65 still live without any natural teeth. Many also suffer from untreated cavities, and three out of four adults show signs of periodontal disease.
What must always be kept in mind is that healthy teeth require lifelong care. And that care not only rewards us with a beautiful smile—it also contributes positively to our overall health. It’s been definitively established that periodontal disease and other dental conditions are linked to serious health issues such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Stroke
- Pneumonia
- Kidney disease
Dental Changes to Watch For
- Old fillings Even if they seem fine at first glance, long-standing dental fillings may have reached the end of their functional lifespan. Worn, chipped, or cracked fillings can trap food particles—making them a hotspot for new cavities.
- Tartar buildup Tartar is a major cause of periodontal disease. It doesn’t form in children but should be regularly removed in adults. Its presence leads to gum recession, exposing tooth roots that are more sensitive and more susceptible to decay. Gum and bone withdrawal eventually leads to tooth mobility or loss.
- Dry mouth Saliva acts as the mouth’s natural cleanser. With age, and due to medications (like antihypertensives, antihistamines, antidepressants) or diseases (particularly autoimmune conditions), saliva flow may decrease—raising the risk of cavities. Enhanced oral hygiene and the use of mouth rinses are essential, along with regular dental check-ups.
- Tooth wear: abrasion and erosion Natural teeth wear down over time, though not equally in everyone. Contributing factors include poor brushing technique, hard bristle toothbrushes, teeth grinding (bruxism), or acidic/hard foods and drinks. When wear is pronounced, restorative treatments (fillings or crowns) may be needed. Bruxism-related damage can be prevented by wearing a night guard during sleep, when grinding tends to be most severe.