One of the most common oral health concerns older adults face is teeth falling out. Elderly teeth falling out is a top concern for senior patients.
Aging is a normal process that impacts everything about our wellness, including our oral health. However, getting older will not automatically make teeth fall out.
Why do seniors face so much tooth loss?
Keep reading to find out more about aging and oral health.
How Aging Impacts Our Teeth
Aging does alter our bodies, and this includes our teeth. Even by our mid 30’s, our risk for tooth loss increases. Without proper dental care, elderly teeth falling out can be a major problem. But it’s not hopeless.
Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Gum disease is one of the top reasons for elderly tooth loss. Left untreated, periodontitis eventually leads to loose teeth. Eventually, teeth may fall out or require extraction. The early stages of gum disease are reversible, but without proper treatment, it worsens over time.
Lack of Oral Hygiene
What’s another leading cause of tooth loss in older adults? Poor dental hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing are forms of preventative dental care. Preventative dental care helps remove plaque and keep teeth healthy. As we age, it can become more difficult to handle tasks alone, including dental hygiene. But without diligent at-home dental care, our teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, and more.
Dental Care
Another big reason the elderly experience tooth loss is because of a lack of dental care. Lack of dental care is a serious problem that many seniors face. It can be difficult to get to the dentist on your own as you get older. Dental cleanings and exams at least once every six months help keep your mouth clean and give the dentist a chance to catch and treat any minor dental issues before they lead to tooth loss.
A Dentist for Seniors in Grand Rapids, MI
Professional dental care is important for patients of all ages, but it becomes even more important as we age. Finding the right dentist is the first step.
Benton Family Dental care is here to help. We provide complete dental care for the whole family, including older adults. Our compassionate, knowledgeable team has experience working with patients in their golden years. We create a comfortable, welcoming environment for seniors. Our team takes the time to explain dental care to older adults and ensure they feel confident about their care.
Schedule an appointment with our dentist for seniors in Grand Rapids today!
