It’s a common misconception that aging results in losing teeth and living with a gummy bite for the rest of your life. In reality, teeth do not naturally fall out with age but are victims of gum disease.
Maintaining healthy gums can help you keep your natural teeth securely attached to your gums. So, why do so many older people lose teeth? Are they more at risk for gum disease than younger individuals? The answer is yes. Research indicates that adults over 68% or older are affected by some form of gum disease.
In this blog, we will learn why older people are more at risk for gum disease, how to prevent it, and what signs of existing periodontal disease to look out for.
Why Older People Are Likely to Get Gum Disease
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to periodontal disease due to several factors. Age-related health issues often result in reliance on medications that lead to dry mouth and increase the risk of gum infections.
Women going through menopause may have hormonal imbalances that contribute to a painful gum disease known as desquamative gingivitis. Older adults often have conditions that impair immune response, such as diabetes and heart disease.
A decline in appetite or nutritional intake can lead to vitamin deficiencies that may affect the gums. Reduced mobility and cognitive decline can harm one’s ability to maintain proper oral hygiene and further increase the risk of periodontal issues.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The good news is that gum disease is preventable with routine dental visits, good oral hygiene, and lifestyle adjustments. Brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing daily is essential.
Flossing is important for keeping gums healthy. It removes plaque that hardens into tartar and irritates the gums. However, traditional flossers can be challenging for those with dexterity issues, so water flossers are an easy-to-use alternative.
It’s important to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as they can cause and worsen most oral health issues, including periodontal disease. Their effects also go beyond oral health and can weaken the immune system, leading to a greater likelihood of developing gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease to Look Out For
Since a staggering number of middle-aged and older adults are likely to have gum disease, it’s recommended that they get a professional dental evaluation. It’s important not to ignore any signs of gum disease, as it can lead to tooth loss and worsen existing health conditions.
Here are some signs of periodontal disease to look out for.
- Swollen Gums
Gums that appear red or swollen can indicate the presence of inflammation. - Bleeding Gums
Any bleeding during brushing or flossing should not be ignored. - Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath caused by bacteria associated with gum disease. - Receding Gums
If the gums appear to be pulling away from the teeth and exposing more tooth surface, this is a sign of gum recession. - Loose Teeth
Advanced gum disease can lead to teeth feeling loose due to loss of supporting bone structure.
End Note
Gum disease is a significant concern for older adults, but it is not an inevitable part of aging. You can preserve your natural teeth for life by scheduling regular dental consultations, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine with flossing, and avoiding harmful habits.
Gum disease can have severe consequences and is particularly concerning for older individuals as it can worsen existing health issues. If you suspect that you or a loved one has gum disease, it’s important to seek help from dental professionals like those at Royalty Dental Associates.
Our expert team can help identify any existing gum disease and provide effective treatment. Dial (281) 655-0500 (Spring Cypress) or (281) 288-0900 (Interstate Hwy 45).