What Is the Most Common Cause of Tooth Loss in the Elderly
Posted on 6/15/2024 by Dr. Michael Wockenfus
Older adults often visit us because their teeth are falling out. Oral health is really important for older adults. When you are missing teeth, it not only changes how your smile looks but also makes it harder to eat and talk comfortably. Some of the most common causes of tooth loss include:
Poor Dental Care
Not taking care of your teeth properly is a big reason why older people lose their teeth. Oral hygiene means looking after your teeth by doing things like brushing and flossing. As we get older, it can be harder to take care of our teeth at home because of changes in our bodies and minds. Many older adults have trouble with this but might feel shy about asking for help.
Aging
Getting older is a normal part of life, and it affects how our bodies work, including our mouths. As we age, our mouths change, and there is a higher chance of losing teeth. But even though older adults might lose teeth, it does not mean things are hopeless. It just means we need to take good care of our teeth and gums to keep our smiles healthy.
Gum Disease
Bleeding gums are a major reason why older people lose teeth. It usually begins with gingivitis and gets worse as periodontitis. Gum disease is a serious problem that gets worse over time. But if we catch it early and treat it right, we can stop it from getting worse and prevent tooth loss in seniors.
Poor Nutrition
Poor nutrition does not just harm our overall health; it can also impact our teeth and gums. Not getting enough calcium in our diets is a big reason why people lose teeth. Additionally, consuming too much sugar or acidic foods can also increase the risk of tooth loss. To prevent this, it is important to maintain a balanced diet with the right nutrients. Eating a balanced diet can help keep our teeth and gums healthy. For more information about your dental health, please visit our clinic.
Dental Blog | Dentist Menasha, WI | Mid Valley Dental, S.C. Michael J. Wockenfus, DDS created a blog to educate the community. It is your resource for all dentistry questions. Learn and read topics in the blog here! Mid Valley Dental, SC, 903 E. Airport Road, Menasha, WI 54952 | (920) 215-4160 | midvalleydental.com | 11/2/2024 | Related Phrases: dentist Menasha WI |