Unfortunately, for older patients losing their natural teeth isn’t a far-off nightmare—it can be a close reality! While tooth loss in seniors has decreased overall, there are still a large number of senior patients that remain with no teeth at all! If you’re wondering why you’re more susceptible to tooth loss as you age, this post from your Kansas City, MO dentist explains it all.
Why Do Older Patients Lose Their Teeth?
Losing teeth at an older age is normal due to natural wear and tear over the years. Over time, chewing and biting weaken the protective layer of enamel. Bacteria and plaque can lead to sore and swollen gums that eventually trigger gum infection and advanced gum disease. When left untreated, gum disease damages the underlying bone and tissue that supports teeth. This causes teeth to loosen, fall out or require professional removal prematurely. Other risk factors for tooth loss include cavities, ongoing dehydration, substance abuse, tobacco use, poor nutrition and physical trauma.
Does Losing Teeth Suggest Bad Oral Health?
Just because you lose teeth doesn’t necessarily mean your oral hygiene is horrible—but there is definitely a decline in your oral health. In fact, those who still have teeth are healthier in general. Tooth loss can be a strong indication of mental and physical decline in adults between 60- and 74-years-old.
Studies from Harvard Dental School revealed that people with tooth loss have an increased risk of stroke, supporting previous reports that gum disease (and subsequent tooth loss) increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
What Happens When You Lose Your Teeth?
Many seniors opt for dentures after losing teeth to continue a normal lifestyle. While dentures allow seniors to chew easier and smile without fear, they aren’t the best tooth replacement option because they have slippage issues.
Instead, talk to your Kansas City, MO dentist about dental implants—a permanent solution to tooth loss. This helps to replace the full tooth from root to crown, fully completing your smile again. Having new tooth roots will keep the whole mouth healthy, including the jawbone.
How Can You Prevent Tooth Loss as You Age?
Strong overall health contributes to healthy teeth and gums. Alcohol and smoking are risk factors for premature tooth loss, so it’s best to eliminate those habits while you’re young. Not only is smoking and drinking in excess bad for your oral health, these habits contribute to lung cancer and liver disease, among other ailments.
Consider these additional tips to help keep natural teeth intact past the age of 60:
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Treat dental problems promptly.
- Have teeth and gums checked/cleaned twice annually.
- Drink water more than any other substance.
- Undergo gum disease treatment at the first signs of gingivitis.
- Limit sugar intake to prevent cavities and tooth decay.
- Maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine, twice daily.
Tooth loss at a young age indicates more serious underlying issues, and if not treated, could lead to additional damage, health complications and a diminished quality of life. If you have any questions, feel free to contact your local dentist.
Meet Your Doctor
By offering complete dental care utilizing modern dental technology, Dr. Byars provides his patients the dental care and services they need to maintain a healthy smile. He loves developing long-lasting relationships with patients and changing their smiles to improve self-confidence and quality of life throughout the years. Feel free to contact our office to schedule your next dental appointment.