Aging and Your Dental Health

By Judy Yu, DMD, MBA

The older adult demographic is on the rise, presenting unique challenges in healthcare. Managing the health of aging patients can be intricate due to concurrent medical conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Moreover, the frequent use of prescription medications by older adults heightens their susceptibility to medication errors, drug interactions, and adverse reactions.

The process of delivering home oral healthcare and patient education/communication can become intricate due to physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments often associated with aging. Dental issues that commonly affect seniors include dry mouth (known as xerostomia), root and coronal caries, and periodontitis.

Notably, a staggering 19% of seniors no longer have any natural teeth, and a Massachusetts survey has unveiled that 34% of seniors experience dental discomfort. Alarmingly, more than half (53%) of seniors grapple with moderate to severe periodontal disease.

Tooth Loss

Seniors who have lost most or all of their teeth often struggle to maintain a balanced diet, as they may avoid fresh fruits and vegetables. Reliance on soft foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies and a decline in overall health. Additionally, these individuals may experience pain, speech difficulties, and feelings of embarrassment and reduced self-esteem, ultimately contributing to social isolation and loneliness.

Medical Considerations

A significant 39% of individuals aged 65 and older report using five or more prescription drugs, a situation that can become more complex when multiple healthcare providers and pharmacies are involved. It is crucial for dentists to regularly review the medical history and current medications of aging patients.

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

Dry mouth affects approximately 30% of patients over 65 years old, with this number increasing to 40% among those over 80 years old. This condition can be triggered by more than 400 commonly prescribed medications and can lead to mucositis, cavities, cracked lips, and a fissured tongue. To combat this, it is recommended to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day while limiting alcohol and sugary or caffeinated beverages such as juices, sodas, and coffee.

Dental Insurance Coverage

Surprisingly, half of seniors neglect to visit a dentist, with cost being the primary deterrent. Shockingly, around 70% of seniors lack dental insurance. Traditional Medicare does not cover routine dental care, and even Medicare Part A offers limited coverage for “medically necessary” dental benefits. Medicare Advantage plans with dental coverage often provide minimal benefits.

Tips For Maintaining and Enhancing Oral Health

• Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush. An electric toothbrush may be advantageous for those with limited mobility.

• Floss daily to clean between your teeth.

• If you wear dentures or partials, remember to clean them daily.

• Opt for tap water, which contains fluoride to help prevent tooth decay.

• Regularly visit a dentist for check-ups and dental care.