3 oral problems that most affect the elderly

With aging, oral health becomes even more important for seniors. Dr. Patricia Baptista, a dentist working in the city of São Paulo, explains that many dental problems can arise in old age, but the good news is that most of them can be prevented with simple and regular care. Next, the specialist lists 3 dental problems that generally affect the elderly and how to treat each one of them. Look!

1. loss of teeth

One of the main concerns is the loss of teeth, which can affect the appearance, eating and self-esteem of the elderly. Missing teeth can also lead to jaw joint and health issues. To avoid them, many opt for dental prosthesis, but Dr. Patricia Baptista explains that maintaining care with this device is also essential.

“Oral care is important even for people who no longer have their teeth, as a worn-out, poorly cleaned prosthesis, in an irregular shape or missing teeth, can harm the nutrition and physical and mental health of the elderly, making it difficult to chew , causing ulcers, inflammation in the gums or even problems with social interaction, for fear of the prosthesis falling off, for not being able to chew properly and even for speech problems”, explains the dentist.

two. Dry mouth

Another common concern in old age is the dry mouth, which can be caused by medications, illnesses and other factors. Dry mouth can lead to cavities, gum disease and bad breath. Dr. Patrícia Baptista suggests drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary and acidic foods, in addition to using moisturizing mouthwashes and artificial saliva, if necessary.

3. Gingivitis and periodontitis

Gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are also common in old age. They can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of other diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Prevention includes proper brushing at least 3 times a day, flossing, regular visits to the dentist and early treatment.

Finally, the dentist emphasizes the importance of a healthy and balanced diet, which includes foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and green leafy vegetables. These nutrients are necessary for healthy bones and teeth.

Tips to keep your oral health up to date

In short, oral health care in old age should be taken seriously. With good oral hygiene, regular visits to the dentist and a healthy diet, it is possible to prevent dental problems and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for many years. “I love seeing my elderly patients’ confidence restored, I always tell them, it’s never too late to smile again”, concludes Dr. Patricia Baptista.

By Rodrigo Almeida