Did you know that nearly half of adults 30+ years old show signs of gum disease? Unfortunately, that number increases to 70% for those who are 65 years or older. It’s natural to feel startled by these statistics and wonder why this issue is so much more prevalent in older adults. The truth is that certain risk factors come with aging and contribute to the problem.
If you’re not sure whether you’ve developed periodontal disease, keep reading to learn 3 potential causes and what you can do!
Factor #1: Prescription Medications
Aging impacts your entire body and as a senior, you’re more likely to have developed other conditions like heart issues, diabetes, or even depression. Some medications used to treat these illnesses cause dry mouth which increases the likelihood of gum disease.
Saliva is your body’s natural defense against oral problems because it helps rinse away harmful bacteria and leftover food particles that cause plaque buildup. Without enough moisture, these unwanted germs can thrive and eventually penetrate beneath your gumline.
If you’re concerned that your medications are troublesome, ask your doctor about alternatives.
Factor #2: Hormonal Changes
Women in menopause experience hormonal imbalances that leave them prone to a painful form of gum disease called desquamative gingivitis. Patients who’ve contracted this often complain of a moderate to severe burning sensation in their tongues, lips, or in the tissues inside their mouths. This is due in part to changes in salivary cortisol levels as well as reduced production.
In many cases, hormone replacement therapy helps manage changes during menopause. You can also drink more water and avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol that dry out your system.
Factor #3: Substance Abuse
If you’ve spent years smoking cigarettes, vapes, or ingesting excessive amounts of alcohol then you’re more likely to develop periodontal issues. Tobacco contains nicotine which restricts blood oxygen levels and flow so your body is less able to send essential nutrients to your mouth. Your teeth and gums are less able to fight infection as a result. Alcohol, meanwhile, is highly acidic and contains sugars that work together to wear down the enamel of your teeth and attract disease-inducing microbes.
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily is essential to remove buildup to prevent problems. You should also maintain regular dental visits every 6 months for a checkup, oral cancer screening, and professional cleaning to ensure your smile stays healthy.
Gum disease that’s left untreated can enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas which contributes to the development of heart conditions, diabetes, and other serious medical concerns. If you’re a senior adult and are concerned about periodontal issues, it’s better to call your dentist sooner rather than later!
About the Practice
At Turning Leaf Dental, patients benefit from a highly-qualified dentist as well as a periodontal specialist who work together to offer a wide range of oral care services. They combine their breadth of experience with a compassionate approach in a comfortable setting to help you feel at ease throughout your visit. Then, they use state-of-the-art equipment to identify areas of concern and provide fully individualized treatments to address them quickly and accurately. If you’re concerned about gum disease, they are experts who can help! You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (617) 536-5182.