What are the most common oral conditions affecting the elderly population?

Presence of root caries, periodontal disease and xerostomia are oral diseases that are found majorly affecting the older population. Despite these conditions affecting the elderly being treatable or preventable, many of the elderly do not avail the needed treatment.

What issues do the elderly face in terms of oral health care?

Oral health problems in older adults include the following:

  • Untreated tooth decay. Nearly all adults (96%) aged 65 years or older have had a cavity; 1 in 5 have untreated tooth decay.
  • Gum disease. A high percentage of older adults have gum disease.
  • Tooth loss.
  • Oral cancer.
  • Chronic disease.

Why do elderly have poor oral health?

Caries remains a major oral health problem among the elderly for various reasons: the increase in treatment and maintenance of teeth rather than their extraction; age-related salivary changes; a poor diet; exposure of the root surface by gingival recession; and a greater likelihood of drug treatment with xerostomia as …

What are the four oral health conditions that affect the aging population?

Dental conditions associated with aging include dry mouth (xerostomia), root and coronal caries, and periodontitis; patients may show increased sensitivity to drugs used in dentistry, including local anesthetics and analgesics.

How does aging affect the mouth?

Today, three-quarters of people over 65 retain at least some of their natural teeth, but older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay, oral cancer, mouth infections, and tooth loss.

What is the most common cause of tooth loss in the elderly?

Periodontal disease, characterized by receding gums, wobbly teeth, and deterioration of the jawbone, is the primary culprit in tooth loss among older adults.

How will you promote oral health among older adults?

Brush your teeth every day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have problems thinking or making decisions (or if you care for someone who lives with these concerns). Floss your teeth every day. Using floss holders may be helpful for people with stiff hands.

What causes tooth decay in elderly?

One common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. However, it is a side-effect in more than 500 medications, including those for allergies or asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pain, anxiety or depression, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

How often should a 70 year old go to the dentist?

As an aging senior, make sure you schedule at least two appointments with the dentist every year. However, if you have pre-existing conditions, reach out to your dentist to figure out a comprehensive dental care plan.

What are the most common oral diseases?

Some of the most common diseases that impact our oral health include cavities (tooth decay), gum (periodontal) disease, and oral cancer.