The 5 Biggest Dental Problems for People Over 50

Getting older may be daunting. This is seen as a problem-ridden stage of life. There are various health issues associated with aging. However, one of the most common ones is oral health. There are a lot of dental problems for people over 50.

Although nowadays dental practices and habits have improved a lot yet dentures and partials is still the norm for many people beyond 50s across the globe.

Here are 5 Major dental problems for people over 50 and solutions to deal with them.

Dry Mouth

Most of the people are not aware but saliva actually keeps the teeth clean and prevents decay. When salivary glands do not function properly it causes dry mouth that can be harmful to teeth in many ways. There can be various reasons for dry mouth in old age such as diabetes, stress, and medication.

The dry mouth does not necessarily mean you’re thirsty. However, it may cause sticky feeling inside the mouth. Sometimes, it may cause bad breath as well.

If you’re suffering from the same, you can fix it by chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water throughout the day. In severe cases, you must consult a dentist. He may prescribe you something stronger.

Gingivitis

This is another common dental issue in people above 50. Gingivitis causes red and swollen gums that may also bleed sometimes. If left untreated it can turn into a serious gum infection.

Gingivitis can be easily prevented with proper dental care and regular visits to a dentist.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay does not happen in a day, it is a continuous process. Bacteria and bad eating habits are majorly responsible for it. With the age, a sticky substance known as plaque start forming on your teeth. It feeds on sugar in the food and makes acids that damage tooth enamel over the period of time and cause tooth decay.

Cavities and plaque are very common near to gums, and around the old dental fillings. It may make tooth enamel more soft and exposed.

To prevent tooth decay, you must visit your dentist regularly. The use of fluoride toothpaste may also help.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is one of the lethal dental problems for people over 50. At this age, the chances of oral cancer are high, especially in people who do heavy use of alcohol tobacco products. People with a weak immune system are also at a high risk of oral cancer.

The best defense against oral cancer is proper dental care and regular visits to a good dentist who can do early detection of oral cancer.

In case if your dentist does not check with oral cancer, you must switch to another. It is very crucial to have regular dental check-up even if you are not a smoker or a drinker.

Overcrowding of Teeth

With aging, some people start getting teeth shift. Their teeth get overcrowded and food particles start to get stuck in them creating cavities leading to tooth decay.

Although in most cases, an orthodontist can fix the overcrowding of teeth with a retainer yet these teeth would need frequent professional cleanings.

Taking a good care of your mouth, teeth and gums are very important at any age. And people who do this, enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile even in their golden age.

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