As we age, our oral healthcare needs change. Patients who are 65 and older are generally considered to be in the geriatric age range. Those individuals are statistically more likely to need restorative treatments, such as dental crowns, dental bridges, and dentures.
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud provides specialized care to these older adults in Lombard, IL by preventing, managing, and treating a wide range of dental issues. You can trust our team of professionals to provide compassionate and comfortable care that will help you achieve a healthy smile.
How Do Oral Healthcare Needs Change as We Age?
By the time dental patients reach age 65 and older, they may be experiencing a wide range of potential health problems depending on genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and other factors.
In general, aging leads to:
- Increased risk for dry mouth
- Decreased immunity properties in saliva
- Dental erosion
- Yellowing of teeth
- Increased risk for gum disease
- Higher rates of tooth loss
- Greater need for prosthetics to retain chewing function
According to an article published by the American Dental Association, 18 percent of adults over age 65 have untreated cavities and 68 percent of adults over that age had periodontitis.
Older adults are at higher risk for cavities, according to the ADA, due to increased gum tissue recession, which exposes root surfaces, and the use of certain medications. Around half of adults over age 75 have at least one cavity. Due to higher rates of gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss, it is important for patients over 65 to maintain regular dental visits and exams. Early treatment of minor dental problems can help patients prevent the need for more invasive procedures.
To reduce the risk of cavities, the ADA recommends that patients in the geriatric population purchase oscillating toothbrushes and use topical fluoride (through rinses, toothpaste, or varnish applications). Geriatric individuals should also:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss at least once
- Leave dentures out when sleeping to reduce gum tissue irritation
- Report any discomfort resulting from prosthetics immediately to Dr. Glud
Geriatric Dental Care Treatments
Our office offers a wide range of preventative, cosmetic, and restorative treatments for our geriatric patients.
The average age an individual is diagnosed with oral cancer is 62, according to the American Cancer Society. While tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption are leading risk factors for oral cancer, we encourage all of our patients in this age range to consider periodic screening for oral cancer.
Many of our geriatric patients have enjoyed the aesthetic benefits of cosmetic treatments. For worn, chipped, or discolored teeth, we offer veneers. Minor dental blemishes can be covered using tooth-colored dental bonding.
Individuals who have experienced tooth loss can benefit from one of the multiple restorative treatment options we offer. Severely worn teeth can be restored using dental crowns, which “cap” the tooth in a strong, natural-looking prosthetic. One or more neighboring teeth can be replaced using a dental crown, and we can restore an entire arch of lost teeth using custom-fitted dentures. More patients are opting for the life-like feel of dental implants, which replace lost tooth roots and can be fitted with a dental crown or other prosthetic.
Work With a Dentist Who Understands Geriatric Dental Care
Whether you simply need a cleaning or a permanent solution to your missing teeth, Dr. Glud and her skilled team of dental professionals have the skills, experience, and technology to restore form and function to your smile. To schedule your next appointment with Dr. Glud, call our Lombard, IL practice to schedule an appointment. You can reach a member of our staff at 630-629-5700.
