As you age, your body changes in all different types of ways, including your teeth, and the prospect of searching out geriatric dentistry will become essential. Aging is a natural process that no one can escape, and we are always searching for ways to slow the process down, prevent certain things from happening and keep us looking and feeling younger rather than older.
Maintaining a healthy and bright smile is one of the many ways a person can look and feel younger. A beautiful smile is one feature that will enhance every new encounter you make throughout your day—looking in the mirror in the morning and seeing bright, white, healthy teeth can set your tone for the entire day.
Geriatric dentistry is described as the delivery of dental care to older adults involving diagnosis, prevention, management, and treatment of age-related problems. Our society needs help when they become a senior member, and dentists play a very big part in this stage of a person’s life.
Our population is aging rapidly. It is projected that we will have a huge population of people over 65 by 2030. Dentists need to be prepared to have more than enough patients on their schedules.
Older patients will seek ways to help them with all different problems and complaints with the look and feel of their teeth and gums. A proper oral hygiene routine can only take a person so far. Some problems surface with aging that brushing and flossing daily will not prevent.
No matter what age they are, everyone should always schedule a routine dental examination every six months as recommended. During these essential visits, oral issues can be discovered and treated in their earliest stages.
You want all issues found as early as possible because if they can be fixed right away, you can prevent future damage down the road and save yourself a lot of pain and money. Your dentist has the same goal as you; they want you to keep your natural teeth healthy for as long as possible and in the future want you to remain pain-free and have good oral hygiene.
When a person reaches a certain age, they may develop health issues that affect their oral hygiene. Bone density can cause your enamel to thin and be more prone to teeth sensitivity and even gum disease, leading to needing a tooth extracted.
Tooth extraction can be done in your dentist’s office quickly. Having a tooth removed can benefit because it can stop the spread of any decay to neighboring healthy teeth. You can discuss replacing that space in your mouth with your dentist.
If you have undergone a tooth extraction, your dentist may recommend a dental implant. An implant is a great way to fill the space that now remains in your mouth. A dental implant is secured into your jaw with a screw and looks and feels like your natural tooth.
Although implants are a more expensive option, they are worth the price. You will not have to worry about the implant falling out, and you can take care of it just like a natural tooth.
Many aging adults that develop problems with their oral hygiene due to periodontal disease that has led to multiple missing teeth choose to have their dentists fit them with dentures. Dentures are a very popular way to replace your unhealthy teeth.
Your dentist will remove any remaining teeth and take measurements for your dentures. You may need partial dentures or a full set of dentures. The decision of which is something you can discuss with your dentist.
Whatever type of dentures you choose, you can be confident that you will have back your smile and healthy mouth in a matter of a few office visits.
It's never too late to start taking care of your oral health. If you are at the point in your life when you feel you need help with your oral hygiene, contact your dentist and make an appointment for a consultation.
Geriatric dentistry is at one of the most advanced stages it has ever been, and there are always new treatment options popping up. Don’t hesitate to discuss your oral health and get on course to get your confidence back. Your dentist is available to help you in any way they can. Reach out to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://www.southerncalsmiles.com or call Southern Cal Smiles: Susan Fredericks, D.D.S, M.P.H. at (818) 657-8055 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.
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