ELDERLY PATIENTS

INTRODUCTION I have specifically included a separate section on this, as generally as a rule people are living longer, and the population is aging (don't take offense - none is intended). THE FACTS

ELDERLY PATIENTS

1. People are living longer
   
   
2. People are keeping their teeth longer
   
   
3. Older people have other medical problems which can and do affect their teeth
   
   
4. Older people are wanting to save their teeth, rather than opt for dentures
   
   
5. Older people are wanting more cosmetic care
   

THE FALLACIES (myths)

1. I will definitely lose my teeth
   Years ago this may well have been the case, but with the advent of increased awareness, increased preventive and restorative capabilities and a reduced acceptance of the dentulous state (no teeth), the number of older people with no teeth has fallen dramatically; about 50% in 1971 to somewhere in the region of 23% nowadays.
   
   
2. Older people with teeth generally have severe periodontal disease
   It is true that older people have more loss of bone attachment than younger people but this is not necessarily severe or active just because one is older.
   
   
3. A dry mouth is a normal part of growing old
   Salivary flow and composition of saliva in healthy adults is little changed as one grows older. Dry mouths are more prevalent in older adults but mainly due to disease affecting older people or, more likely, medications take to control those diseases. More info >>

CONSEQUENCES OF REDUCED SALIVARY FLOW
This is serious for oral health, as saliva is a key indespensible protector of the oral cavity.

When salivary flow is reduced:

1. Increased acidity in the mouth - increased demineralisation of tooth and increased decay.
   
   
2. Remineralisation reduced - less repair of early areas of decay
   
   
3. Bacteria in the mouth increase - these cause decay and gum disease in the first place
   
   
4. Taste, swallowing, speaking, chewing and the use of dentures can all be impaired.

WHAT CAN BE DONE
The older person must not ignore a dry mouth. Steps must be taken to try to identify the cause and do something about it; increased recall to the dentist, use of fluoride gels, use of salivary substitutes. Dry mouths left alone can lead to severe problems. At Advance Dental Care we are aware of the problems facing the older mouth.


COSMETIC CARE
With care there is no reason why cosmetic treatments cannot be carried out. Age is no barrier for cosmetic treatments such as white fillings, veneers, crowns or tooth whitening. Have fun and why not look as good as you can!