Common Dental Care Problems in the Elderly

                                                                                         

Seniors are susceptible for many dental care problems. Fortunately with proper care most dental care problems are easily avoided or treated even for the elderly. One of the most common dental care problems in the elderly is darkened stained teeth. Years of ingesting foods like coffee and activities such as smoking can cause teeth to become yellow and discolored. A cosmetic dentist can help patients of any age whiten their teeth and get a beautiful smile.

Gum disease is also a common dental care problem in the elderly. It is caused by plaque accumulating on the teeth and can be made worse by food particles left in teeth, poor-fitting dentures or bridges, and certain diseases such as cancer and diabetes which are common problem for older adults.

Tooth loss caused by these problems is common in the elderly. Many adults loose some or all of their teeth because of tooth decay or gum disease and must get dentures or bridges. Sometimes teeth can be saved with a root canal or if teeth are lost or must be removed dental work such as dental implants or bridges from a cosmetic dentist can save the surrounding teeth.

Dentures and bridges can also cause common dental care problems in the elderly. Poorly fitting dentures can cause pain, discomfort, and even inflammation and irritation. They can also cause stomatitis if poorly fitting dentures and poor dental hygiene causes a buildup of the fungus candida albicans, inflaming the tissue around the denture.

The elderly are at an increased risk of dental care problems because some medical conditions such as arthritis in the hands and fingers can make brushing and flossing hard. Medications can also affect oral health and may necessitate special dental care. A qualified cosmetic dentist can help seniors manage their dental needs and prevent common dental care issues in the elderly.

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To learn more about teeth whitening near Washington DC, porcelain veneers near Washington DC, and Invisalign near Washington DC, it is important to speak with a skilled dentist in your area.

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