The Importance of Dental Care for Seniors

A healthy mouth often leads to a healthy body. This is a fact that doesn’t disappear with age. In fact, as we age, dental care becomes a more critical part of our overall health. At our dental offices in Highland Park and Chicago Heights, some of the most special smiles we care for belong to seniors, and we’re always glad to see them since many parts of aging can directly impact oral health.

Dry Mouth

Both prescription and over-the-counter medications can not only help whatever ails you, they can also have a negative impact on your mouth. Some medicines lead to a reduction in saliva production, which can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth is much more serious than it sounds. Despite the fact that a dry mouth is uncomfortable, it contributes to severe tooth decay and even gum disease. And it’s a big issue among our older patients. An estimated 30 percent of America’s seniors suffer from dry mouth, and are at risk for oral health concerns.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is dangerous for everyone, but especially those over the age of 40. By age 65, 1 out of every 4 people has gum disease. This scary health problem can lead to incredibly serious overall health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. A majority of things can increase the chance of developing gum disease, but some of the most common are:

• Poor Diet
• Inadequate oral hygiene routine
• Smoking
• Medication

Gum disease is reversible, but it’s crucial to catch it early. This makes regular appointments at our dental office in Highland park or Chicago Heights even more important for seniors.

Existing Conditions

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer can affect your oral health. It’s always important to talk to your dentist about all your general health issues so you get the best whole-health treatment and know your dentist is meeting any special needs.

In all, it’s always important to make sure to keep up with regular dental appointments as well as medical care, especially as we age. If you’re without a dentist, call our Highland Park or Chicago Heights dental office and schedule an appointment. We’d love to have you!

Welcoming patients from Highland Park, Deerfield, Highwood, Chicago Heights, Crete, Park Forest, and surrounding areas.