Tooth loss is inevitable at age: 6 ways to protect dental health
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Some might assume that Losing teeth It’s part of getting older.
According to 2020 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 11% of adults aged 65 to 74 lost all teeth.
However, experts say this is inevitable. Dental experts shared the following tips to prevent tooth loss and improve overall health:
1. Protect the health of gum
Approximately 2 out of 3 adults over the age of 65 are handled in some way Periodontal diseaseaccording to a recently published AARP report.
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Clinical experts cited in the report, including Dr. Uchenna Akosa, assistant professor and director of Dental Associates at Rutgers Health University in New Jersey, warn that bleeding indicates a deeper problem.
“Even if you don’t lose teeth, periodontal disease impairs your ability to chew hard foods,” Akosa told AARP. “It’s going to happen It affects your nutrition You can be at risk of malnutrition in the future. ”
If your gums bleeding during brushing, or if you notice sensitivity or recession, they are indications to schedule a dental visit. (istock)
Left untreated periodontal disease can destroy the bone that holds the teeth in place, preventing them from nourishing or chewing.
Periodontal disease is also the source of chronic inflammation in the body, Dementia riskresearch shows. A meta-analysis of approximately 34,000 people found that older adults who have lost all teeth were 1.4 times more likely to develop dementia, as cited by AARP.
The publication also points to previous research linking periodontal disease to other health risks. Heart attackstroke and cancer.
Approximately 11% of adults aged 65 to 74 have lost all their teeth.
Experts recommend focusing on early prevention. If your gums bleeding during brushing, or if you notice sensitivity or recession, they are indications to schedule a dental visit.
Regular professional cleaning and health checks can capture gum problems before they lead to tooth loss or other health effects.
According to AARP, all teeth lost were 1.4 times more risk of developing dementia. (istock)
AARP reports that switching to an electric toothbrush, brushing twice a day for 2 minutes and using a water flosser is an effective way to protect everything Gum Health.
Your perfect smile cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, California, Dr. David Frey said he encourages elderly patients to frequently recommend water flossers, particularly the fusion of sounds with water picks.
“It’s especially valuable Arthritis patientsthere is limited mobility and trouble using traditional floss,” Frey told Fox News Digital.
2. Prevents the mouth from fading
According to AARP, saliva plays an important role in neutralizing acid, neutralizing tooth enamel and protecting tooth enamel, while dry mouth affects nearly six people in 10 elderly people.
Many common medications – Includes antihistamines, antidepressants and blood pressure drugs – can reduce saliva production and make the mouth more susceptible to cavities, infections and periodontal disease.
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To prevent dry mouths, AARP recommends regularly sipping water, rinsing your mouth after eating, asking your dentist about fluoride toothpaste for prescription strength, and using mouth washes such as biotene and behavior.
3. Personalize your dental visit
Contrary to the standard six-month examination rules, AARP points out that it needs to personalize its dental treatment schedule.
One doctor in the report said, “There’s nothing magical about the six-month diagnosis.” You may only need to go once a year, but others, especially those with chronic illnesses, may need to visit more frequently.
According to AARP, the recommended frequency of dental visits is not a one-size-fits-all. Some people only need to go once a year, but others, especially those with chronic illnesses, may need to visit more frequently. (istock)
According to Frey, oral health issues in older people, especially those related to bite alignment, are often unaware.
“Bite-related issues are often overlooked sources Headache and neck pain“He told Fox News Digital.
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Evaluating bite location and jaw health can reveal the underlying causes of chronic discomfort, Frey noted.
“When 3D imaging is combined with in-depth dental testing, surface wear, small fractures, chipping, and more often reveal that the muscles around the head and neck are not in harmony with the bite.”
4. Explore financial support options
According to the American Dental Association, only three out of 10 adults, more than 65, have dental insurance, and Medicare generally does not cover cleaning, filling, or other routine procedures.
Many common medicines can reduce saliva production and make the mouth more prone to spoilage, experts say. (istock)
This economic gap often leads people to skip dental care completely, which could lead to more serious (and expensive) problems in the future.
AARP suggests looking into dental savings plans, local dental schools, or slide scale community clinics if compensation is an issue.
5. Adopt healthy habits
Smoking is Key Contributors To lose teeth.
CDC data show that smokers are up to three times more likely to lose teeth than non-smokers.
CDC data show that smokers are up to three times more likely to lose teeth than non-smokers. (istock)
And while sweet cough wardrobes and hard candies may look harmless, experts warn that over time it can damage the enamel of your teeth.
Switching to candies containing sugar-free gum or xylitol will prevent cavities and support better oral health, Akosa told AARP.
6. Restore the appearance
One of the biggest misconceptions about aging and dental health, according to Frey, is one of the biggest misconceptions about aging and dental health.
“It’s not just about activating teeth, it’s about activating people.”
“The delicate, thin porcelain veneer restores the vitality, colour and shape that once had your teeth, enhancing your smile and overall look,” he told Fox News Digital.
“And it’s not just cosmetics, it’s about restoring health, confidence and proper functioning.”
AARP reports that switching to an electric toothbrush, brushing twice a day for two minutes, and using a water flosser is all effective ways to protect gum health. (istock)
According to Dr. Frey, “It’s not just about activating teeth, it’s about activating people.”
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According to the AARP report, for those looking to brighten up their smiles, Erin Flandorf, founder of the Boca Orthodontics and Whitening Studio in St. Louis, recommends seeing your dentist before trying out a whitening treatment.
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“Office treatments remain the safest and most effective option, but professional grade takeaway kits and OTC products are perfect for maintenance,” Fraundorf said.