Sure, teeth are some of the strongest parts of the human body. Still, they can get worn down from a lifetime of chewing and grinding. This damages the hard outer layer called enamel and flattens the parts you use when you chew and bite. It is not possible to undo the damage overnight, especially without visiting a dentist office in Pacific Beach, San Diego.
As you age, maintaining and caring for teeth becomes ever so challenging. Various physiological changes and lifestyle factors can compromise the integrity of your dental structure. It becomes increasingly vital to be educated about how aging affects oral health. Moreover, what proactive measures you can take to prevent the problem from worsening?
Common Oral Health Problems Associated with Aging
One of the most unavoidable impacts of aging is the yellowing or graying of your teeth. This happens when the outermost layer of your teeth, the enamel, gets worn down. Many adults are even susceptible to root decay, eventually leading to tooth decay or tooth loss. And to cover this loss, you will need to undergo dental procedures such as dentures or dental implants.
Aging does not only affect your oral health, but it has severe impacts on your immune system as well. The saliva production in your mouth decreases, and it will be more prone to bacterial growth. This can cause infection to your surrounding bone tissues, teeth, and gums. The gum infection will be more challenging to treat in adults than in younger people.
How to keep your gums healthy?
Plaque and bacteria constantly build up on your teeth. If left uncleaned, they can cause bleeding, soreness, and swelling of your gums. The infection can further reach to the underlying bone, making the case more serious.
If a gum disease is detected, your dentist may recommend a periodontitis treatment. Not visiting your dentist regularly can worsen something that could have been fixed. This is why it is crucial to recognize signs of gum disease. They include:
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Gums that recede or pull back from your teeth
- Bleeding when you brush your teeth
Is it too late to go to the dentist if you are old?
Not at all. It does not matter if you are ten years old or are an eighty-year-old, it is never too late to fix your dental issues.
The aging process is inevitable. However, aging-related oral health issues are not. You can influence your oral health by taking proactive measures and mitigating any potential risks. Make sure to stick to a healthy and rich diet, stay hydrated, and visit your dentist for routine checkups.
