It is a common myth that seniors are destined to lose their teeth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). There is no reason seniors cannot keep their teeth for life because dental disease is simply the result of oral disease, not the aging process.
Regular dental visits are especially important for older people because many mouths dry up, which slows down the flow of saliva. Saliva plays a major role in preventing tooth decay by removing food particles and neutralizing harmful acids. Dry mouth often comes with old age, but can also be caused by medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and diuretics. Dry mouth can often be treated by a dentist.
With regular dental visits, seniors should floss daily and brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. They should also ask their dentist about fluoride rinses and gels as studies show that seniors who brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste or use fluoride rinses or gels regularly have low cavities. Seniors are most likely to get cavities where old filler has peeled off or where the gums are left behind leaving the root surfaces unprotected.
Other tips on keeping teeth for a lifetime: Avoid snacks with snacks, sugars, and starch, and alert the dentist to any changes in medication.
