Do Aging and Tooth Loss Go Together?
Some older folks are under the false idea that they will inevitably lose their teeth as they age. Do aging and tooth loss go together? Losing adult teeth is not a foregone conclusion and tooth loss for seniors is far from certain. Proper nutrition, and daily oral care, along with regular dental appointments with Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS will help patients whether old or young maintain a healthy smile.
WHAT ARE THE CHIEF Causes of Tooth Loss?
Adult Periodontal Disease – Gingivitis and Periodontitis
The most frequent cause of tooth loss among the older generation is periodontal disease, the result of inflammation and infection of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. Periodontal disease wears down supporting tissues in the mouth, which often leads to tooth loss. As you get older, periodontal disease becomes more likely because tartar and plaque accumulate over time, and good oral hygiene habits might be more difficult to take care of as you age. Dr. Evanson can provide some pointers to help with daily brushing. If you currently have periodontal disease, regular treatment, and maintenance at Dr. Evanson’s office is critical.
Gingivitis – Inflammation of the Gums
The first symptom of gum disease is redness of the gums, swelling and bleeding when brushing your teeth. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is usually linked with micro-organisms, specific infections, or trauma. Inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth is usually linked with plaque that covers the gums and teeth. Gingivitis can be reversed if caught in time by practicing good personal oral hygiene every day which removes the bacterial plaque from around the teeth and gums. Regardless of your age, toothbrushing and flossing every day should be part of your oral hygiene routine.
Periodontitis – Inflammation that Affects Bone and Tissues of the Teeth
If gingivitis is left untreated, it might lead to periodontitis, which is a serious mouth disease,
Symptoms include pockets or spaces between the teeth and gums, leading to loosening and loss of teeth.
Early detection of periodontal disease is difficult, because it doesn’t cause pain and it may progress unnoticed, especially if you don’t have regular dentist appointments. In the early stages, bleeding gums may be the only sign that there is a problem. As the disease progresses the gums deteriorate, and the teeth start to feel loose. Early stages of periodontal disease respond to treatment, however some of the destruction is irreversible if not treated in a timely manner.
Progression of this disease varies. There are other factors that can cause periodontal disease to escalate such as those with diabetes, HIV infection, leukemia, and compromised immune systems. This is another key reason to see Dr. Evanson at least every 6 months.
Regular Dental Appointments with Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS
The best thing to ensure a healthy smile in the years to come is to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, eat a healthy diet, ditch your bad habits, and visit Dr. Evanson twice a year. Patients needing gum disease treatment usually visit Dr. Evanson more than twice a year, as needed. When periodontal disease has surfaced, maintenance and frequent care is crucial to keep the disease from advancing.
Routine dental care has a tremendous effect on the likelihood of being able to preserve your teeth. Biting into a fresh apple or eating a juicy steak for dinner are some of the simple pleasures in this life! Act now to do what you can to preserve your teeth into the later years of your life.
Schedule your next dental checkup by contacting us online, or call (720) 409-0008.
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