Tooth loss is primarily the result of not being able to prevent oral disease and not a result of the aging process. Taking care of your teeth can help them last a lifetime. Yes you read it right, lifetime! Proper oral care can keep you smiling well into your retirement. Brushing twice a day with a medium-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste is as important as ever. Further flossing can help you save your teeth by removing plaque between teeth and below the gum line, where your toothbrush is unable to reach.
What are some problems I should watch for?
· Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Most people don't realize how important it is to take care of their gums. Gingivitis is an early stage gum disease which is caused by the bacteria found in plaque that attack the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and possible bleeding when you brush. If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist at once. If left untreated, Gingivitis can advance into Periodontitis. Three out of four adults over the age of 35 are affected by some sort of gum disease. In Periodontitis, the infection becomes severe. Your gums begin to recede, pulling back from the teeth. In the worst cases, bacteria form pockets between the teeth and gums, further weakening the bone. All this can lead to tooth loss if untreated. If regular oral care is too difficult, your dentist can provide alternatives to aid in flossing and prescribe medication to keep the infection from getting worse.
· Oral Cancer: Oral Cancer most often occurs in people over 40 years of age. You are advised to see a dentist immediately if you notice any red or white patches on your cheek lines, gums or tongue, and watch for sores that fail to heal within two weeks. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages, when it can be cured easily. Your dentist can perform a head and neck exam to screen for signs of cancer. Since oral cancer is often painless in its early stages, many patients will not notice the signs until it is too late. Aged people, especially those who wear dentures, do not visit their dentists enough and problems goes unseen.
· Dry mouth or Xerostomia: This condition is presented when the salivary glands fail to work. This happens due to certain diseases, medications (ex: medicines used to treat some form of cancer) or even otherwise. This condition makes it difficult to taste, chew, swallow, and speak. Since saliva play a major role in preventing tooth decay, this condition needs medical attention and care. In certain cases, such as radiation therapy, dry mouth can lead to severe complications, which is why it is important for you see a dentist immediately before beginning any form of cancer treatment. Drinking lots of water and avoiding sweets, tobacco, alcohol and caffeine are some ways to fight dry mouth. Your dentist also can prescribe medications to fight severe dry mouth.
Are you having difficulties in brushing?
If you have arthritis, you may find it difficult to brush and floss. Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem. Certain dental products are designed to make dental care less painful for arthritis sufferers. You may want to try strapping the toothbrush to a larger object, such as a ball, to make the brush more comfortable to handle, or use an electric toothbrush.
Maintaining your overall health:
Good oral health will keep your body healthier and can help you to an extent from avoiding certain illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, etc. It is important that you visit your dentist for a cleaning at least twice a year, to keep a check on your oral health.
About the author:
Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.
The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India
She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India
