The elderly have a wide array of problems to deal with. They are usually not as strong or agile as younger people, making everyday tasks more difficult. Additionally, many older adults suffer from chronic health problems that need daily management. These problems can make it hard for the elderly to live independently.
One of the most overlooked problems that older adults have to deal with is their dental health. Age affects people’s dental health in several ways. The most common problems are tooth loss, gum disease, and dry mouth.
Tooth Loss
A study found that one in five seniors has lost almost all of their teeth. This ratio goes even higher for the poor or has never seen a dentist. There are several reasons why tooth loss is more common in older adults.
Gum Disease
The chances of gum disease also go up as people age. This is because the gums become less firm and more likely to bleed. Additionally, the teeth can become loose, making it harder to keep them clean.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common problem for older adults. It can be caused by many things, such as certain medications, medical conditions, and low saliva production. Dry mouth can lead to several problems, such as tooth decay and fungal infections.
Oral health is an integral part of overall health. However, it is often overlooked in older adults. Many people assume that age-related dental problems are just a normal part of life. However, several treatments can help the elderly maintain their oral health.
Here are five essential dental treatments for older adults:
Dental implants
Dental implants are a popular treatment for tooth loss. They are artificial teeth that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the implants have healed, they can support artificial teeth, such as dentures or bridges.
Dental implants are an excellent option for older adults because they look and function just like natural teeth. Additionally, they do not require special care, which can be difficult for older adults to manage.
However, many people think they are too expensive, especially when many teeth need to be replaced. But with the existence of all-in-four teeth implants, the cost of replacing an entire arch of teeth with implants has become more affordable. It has also made the whole process easier. Multiple dental implants usually take weeks to accomplish, but now they can be done in just one visit.
Crowns
Crowns are another standard treatment for tooth loss. They are artificial teeth that are placed over an existing tooth. Crowns can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, metal, or composite resin.
Crowns are a good option for older adults because they are strong and durable. Additionally, dentists can match them to the color of your natural teeth. However, crowns require special care, such as brushing and flossing twice daily.
Dentures
Dentures are the most common dental treatment for tooth loss among older adults. They are artificial teeth that are placed in the mouth. Dentures can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, acrylic, or metal.
Dentures can easily be matched to the color of your natural teeth. However, dentures can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Additionally, they need to be replaced every five to seven years, unlike dental implants, which can be permanent. But they are a much cheaper option than the rest. You can also choose not to wear the dentures if you don’t want them.
Partials
Partials are a type of denture used to replace a few missing teeth. They are made from the same materials as dentures.
They are the cheapest dental treatment on this list and usually cost around $1,000 per arch. The major downside to partials is that they need to be replaced every five years or so. When that’s taken into account, it can be more expensive than the rest, as it requires constant replacing.
Dental bridges
Dental bridges are dental prosthetics used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike dentures, dental bridges glued into place.
Bridges are a good option because they are strong and durable. Additionally, they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. However, it can be costly to get a dental bridge, especially if you need multiple teeth replaced. The cost can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per tooth. Moreover, dental bridges are not permanent and will need to be replaced every five to seven years.
Oral health is vital for everyone, but it is essential for older adults. Several treatments can help the elderly maintain their oral health. These five crucial dental treatments can help older adults keep their teeth healthy and strong.
