When it comes to oral health issues, gum disease is one of the most prevalent ones. About 60% of adults who are 65 or older have some form of it. If you are in this group of people, it’s important to take charge of your oral health and prevent it. Not only will your mouth be thankful, but you can also avoid the links it has with other health complications like dementia and heart problems. But just how are older adults at a higher risk? Continue reading to learn more about how you can protect your smile.
Why Are Older Adults at More Risk of Gum Disease?
If bacteria have the chance to build up in your mouth, they can attack the soft tissue. They can infect your gums and cause a myriad of problems if left untreated. One of the main reasons it happens is due to poor oral hygiene, but there are some other risk factors that older adults have. Here are notable ones:
- Certain Medications: A side effect of some medicines is dry mouth. It prevents you from producing enough saliva to wash away bacteria, letting them linger in your mouth for longer.
- Health Disorders: Some systemic conditions (such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases) can compromise the body’s response to infection. Older adults with them have a higher risk of gum disease.
- Unhealthy Habits: Excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use can also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to oral health issues.
- Hormonal Changes: Menopause-related hormonal fluctuations can lead to more sensitive gums and a higher risk of inflammation.
How You Can Prevent Gum Disease
Even though you are more likely to get gum disease as an older adult, that doesn’t mean you should expect to develop it. You can take steps to protect your smile by following some simple tips.
First off, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily. This will help get rid of bacteria on and between your teeth. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help you get as much as you can.
Break bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol to protect not only your gums, but also your overall health. It’s also important to manage any chronic conditions you have and to eat a balanced diet. Drink plenty of water with your meals and throughout the day to help wash away harmful bacteria.
It’s crucial to keep up with consistent visits to your dentist. They will be able to watch for the early signs of gum disease and help ensure they can tackle it before it becomes a bigger problem. A strong smile is something you should want at any age! Follow these simple tips and take charge of your oral health so it doesn’t falter.
About the Practice
Here at Bragg Dental, one of our goals is to preserve your natural smile. We want you to feel confident about taking care of your mouth, so we take the time to explain how you can improve your at-home routine and ways the treatments we recommend will help you. Our team of skilled dentists is proud to work with people of all ages to get strong teeth and gums. If your gums bleed every time you brush or floss, schedule an appointment or call us at (770) 889-8420.