National Senior Health and Fitness Day
While thousands of senior adults will be lacing on their sneakers for National Senior Health and Fitness Day, it is important to not overlook the necessity of good oral care during the golden years.
According to the US Census, by 2060 24% of the overall population will be 65 years or older.
Older Americans with the poorest oral health tend to be those who are economically disadvantaged, lack insurance, and are members of racial and ethnic minorities. Being disabled, homebound, or institutionalized (seniors who live in nursing homes) also increases the risk of poor oral health.
Common oral health problems in older adults include:
- Untreated tooth decay
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Loss (Nearly 1 in 5 adults aged 65 or older have lost all of their teeth.) Having missing teeth or wearing dentures can affect nutrition.
- Oral Cancer
- Chronic Disease
Taking care of your teeth and gums as you get older can prevent problems like toothaches, tooth decay (cavities) and tooth loss. A healthy mouth also makes it easier for you to eat well and enjoy food.
It is especially important to take care of your teeth and gums if you have a health condition like diabetes or heart disease – or if you are taking medicines that can cause oral health problems.
Brush and Floss Every Day
Brushing and flossing helps remove dental plaque, a sticky film or bacteria (germs). If plaque builds up on your teeth, it can cause tooth decay or gum disease.
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day – brush after breakfast and before bed
- Floss between your teeth every day – if you have trouble flossing, talk to your dentist about options
Watch For changes in Your Mouth
Your risk of getting oral cancer increases as you get older. If you see any changes in your mouth, it’s important to get them checked out. See a doctor or dentist if you have any of these symptoms for more than 2 weeks:
- A spot in your mouth, lip, or throat that feels uncomfortable or sore
- A lump or thick area in your mouth, lip, or throat
- A white or red patch in your mouth
- Trouble chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
- Numbness in your tongue or mouth
- Swelling in your jaw
- Pain in 1 ear without hearing loss
See Your Dentist Regularly
There’s no single rule for how often people need to see the dentist – it varies from person to person. The next time you get a checkup and cleaning, ask your dentist how often you need to come in. Normally 2 visits a year is the standard recommendation.
Talk to Your Doctor About Dry Mouth
Dry mouth means not having enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth can make it hard to eat, swallow, or talk. It can also lead to tooth decay or infection.
Dry mouth is a side effect of some medications. It can also happen if you have certain health problems (like diabetes) or if you’re getting chemotherapy or radiation treatments for cancer.
If you have dry mouth, talk with your doctor or dentist and ask what you can do.
Build Healthy Habits
- Eat healthy and cut down on sugary foods and drinks. This can help prevent tooth decay – and it’s good for your overall health.
- Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products. Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products puts you at higher risk for oral cancer and gum disease.
- If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation. Heavy drinking increases the risk of oral cancer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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