Despite this, I go faithfully every four months because I know (begrudgingly) how important dental health is, especially as we get older.  (I know, everything becomes that much more important/urgent as we age–no wonder aging individuals are always so tired!)

So I am sitting in the dentist chair, mouth open, various picks and scrapers stuck in there and the topic of flossing arises.  Thank goodness all this crap is in my mouth so I have time to craft an answer to that burning question: “Do you floss daily?” Yikes. As a healthcare professional, the correct answer is clear: Yes, yes I do.  However, the actual factual truth is: No, no I don’t (squirm). Once a week at best….yikes that was hard to admit. The hygienist was exceedingly gracious and admitted that I had lovely teeth, but here is where the “bomb” dropped.  She said to me: “As we get older, though, we can’t get away with the habits of our younger years.”  Holy smokes. That is the first time someone has referred to me as “getting older.” And as painful as that was to hear, perhaps it was the motivation I needed to make some changes to my dental habits. And here is why…..

Dental health is crucial at every stage of life, but it becomes increasingly important as we age. As individuals grow older, they may face unique challenges and consequences related to oral health. Poor dentition, which refers to the condition of the teeth and surrounding structures, can have significant impacts on overall health and quality of life for older adults.

Importance of Dental Health as We Age:

• Nutrition and Overall Health:

Good oral health allows for proper chewing and digestion of food, contributing to better nutritional intake and less incidence of nutrient deficiencies. Oral health is linked to systemic health, with associations between gum disease and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions.

• Speech and Communication:

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is essential for clear speech and effective communication.

• Social and Psychological Well-being:

A healthy smile contributes to confidence and self-esteem, positively influencing social interactions and mental well-being. Tooth loss or poor dentition can lead to feelings of embarrassment and social isolation.

• Prevention of Pain and Discomfort:

Good oral hygiene practices can prevent dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay, reducing the risk of pain and discomfort.

Consequences of Poor Dentition in Older Adults:

• Tooth Loss:

Tooth loss can occur due to factors like decay, gum disease, or poor oral hygiene. Loss of teeth can impact speech, chewing ability, and aesthetics–losing teeth disrupts facial structure, symmetry and overall appearance, making you look much older than your actual age. 

• Gum Disease (Periodontitis):

Gingivitis, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, leading to inflammation, infection, and potential tooth loss.

• Dry Mouth:

Aging and certain medications can contribute to reduced saliva production, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. (this is a topic that deserves its own dedicated post so stay tuned)

• Oral Cancer:

Older adults are at a higher risk of developing oral cancers, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups for early detection. You know, when they tell you to stick out your tongue and then grab it with a dry gauze pad, move it all around and then poke their fingers into the deep recesses underneath your tongue–that’s actually a really important surveillance exam

In addition to the above (to add insult to injury), research has suggested a link between poor dentition and various systemic health issues including cardiac and chronic diseases. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, several studies have explored the potential associations between oral health and overall health. It’s important to note that correlation does not imply causation, and further research is needed to establish the precise relationships, but here are a few examples to give you food for thought.

• Cardiovascular Disease (CVD):

Several studies have investigated the association between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Periodontal disease involves inflammation and infection of the gums, and it has been suggested that the bacteria and inflammatory mediators associated with periodontitis might contribute to the development or exacerbation of cardiovascular conditions.

• Diabetes:

Poor dentition has been linked to diabetes, and individuals with diabetes may be at a higher risk of periodontal disease. The relationship is bidirectional, with diabetes potentially increasing the risk of periodontitis and periodontitis potentially affecting glycemic control.

• Respiratory Diseases:

Poor oral health, including conditions like periodontal disease, has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Bacterial respiratory infections may be facilitated by the inhalation of oral pathogens.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):

Some studies have explored the potential link between poor oral health and chronic kidney disease. Chronic inflammation and infection associated with periodontal disease may contribute to systemic inflammation and impact kidney function.

So the takeaway from all of this is that poor dental hygiene leads to periodontal disease (tooth and gum disease, i.e. tooth decay and gum  inflammation) which in turn can trigger systemic inflammation and lead to the development or worsening of the above conditions. Let’s avoid this. Remember, the more chronic conditions you have that are not well controlled, the more likely you are to end up in a facility in your golden years!  

Steps to Improve Dentition in Aging Adults:

• Regular Dental Check-ups:

Schedule regular dental visits for cleanings, examinations, and early detection of potential issues.

• Good Oral Hygiene Practices:

Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between teeth.

Consider using an antiseptic mouthwash with fluoride. 

• Healthy Diet:

Consume a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and vitamin D for strong teeth and bones.

• Address Dry Mouth:

Stay hydrated and consider using sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production.

Consult with healthcare professionals to address medications contributing to dry mouth.

• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption:

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors for gum disease and oral cancers. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can improve oral health.

• Dentures and Implants:

If tooth loss has occurred, consider options like dentures or dental implants to restore function and aesthetics.

• Exercise:

Regular physical activity and overall good health can positively impact oral health by improving circulation and the distribution of important nutrients to the far reaches of our bodies. (I will tell you right now, exercise is a pivotal solution to SO MANY issues in aging.) 

By prioritizing dental health and adopting these proactive measures, older adults can significantly improve their dentition and overall well-being, promoting a healthier and more fulfilling life as they age. Basically, work hard to keep your teeth! It’s that simple, but we all need reminders–even me. 😉