As dental specialist we know how important oral health is to our overall health and wellness especially in older individuals, still a lot of people are ignorant about it, risking their individual overall well being .

Research has shown time and again that gum disease leads to an increased risk of coronary heart disease, aneurysms and other health problems. Common chronic diseases such as diabetes, elevated blood pressure, depression, heart disease, Parkinson’s and malnutrition and sometimes the medications that are used to treat them also impair oral health.

Today, an estimated 70 percent of adults above 65 years of age and older have some of their natural teeth remaining, compared with 54 percent in 1990s.  As the Indian population grows by a projected 1.2 percent per year, the fastest-growing age group will be those 80 years or older.

Working with other members of the health care team — social workers, psychologists, podiatrists, nutritionists and geriatricians — our dentists and dental hygienists can help older patients maintain health and quality of life.

Challenges of ageing

Preserving oral health can get more difficult as we age for many reasons, including:

  • Ignorance towards importance of dental health care
  • Medications that lead to dry mouth and promote dental decay
  • Loss of mobility, making it difficult to get to a dental office
  • Cognitive impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
  • Being institutionalised or homebound
  • Poor family support in old age
  • Financial restrains 

Poor oral hygiene and lack of dental care can lead to pain, infection, bad breath, difficulty eating, social isolation and a loss of dignity.

Older adults, their families, caregivers and the health care professionals who serve them can all benefit from learning about ways to preserve oral health and reduce the risk of problems.

Throughout life but especially as we age, oral health problems arise.  Sometimes, they can be eased with simple interventions.

  • Dry mouth:  Biotin products
  • Dexterity issues:  Battery-powered or electric toothbrush
  • Sensitive gums:  Sensitivity toothpaste
  • Protection against cavities and root decay:  Use a fluoridated mouth rinse
  • For those who can’t swallow:  Oral care swabs or lollipops.