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4 Tips to Maintain Oral Health in Older Adults

*Updated August 2024

As we age, the ability to maintain oral health becomes increasingly important yet often more challenging. Changes in our bodies, side effects from medication, and chronic conditions can all contribute to new dental concerns. However, with the right strategies, older adults can keep their smiles healthy and bright.

Here are four essential tips to help maintain oral health in older adults, ensuring they continue to enjoy good quality of life and overall well-being.

Solutions to maintain oral health in older adults

Stay hydrated and address dry mouth

According to a survey from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 96.4 percent of adults between the ages of 50 and 65 have “caries, missing, or filled permanent teeth.”

This percentage is higher than any other age demographic in the survey. One simple lifestyle change that can help prevent cavities and other oral health problems is to drink more water. Not only is water sugar-free, it can also help keep your teeth clean and reduce the effects of dry mouth.

Dry mouth can cause your salivary glands to reduce or stop producing saliva. Your mouth relies on saliva to help wash away harmful bacteria. Without enough of it, plaque sticks around longer, which can lead to cavities, mouth sores, bad breath, and gum disease.

If your mouth continues to feel dry despite increasing your water intake, it may be caused by prescriptions, underlying health conditions, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Talk to your dentist and your doctor. They will be happy to work with you to determine the cause of dry mouth. Once you find the cause, special toothpaste, rinses, and sprays can be recommended, as well as medication changes.

Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine to prevent gum disease

A daily oral hygiene routine is crucial for preventing dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Older adults can maintain oral health by:

  • Brushing twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean teeth and gums.
  • Flossing daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach.
  • Considering an electric toothbrush: For those with arthritis or limited dexterity, an electric toothbrush can make brushing easier and more effective.

A consistent oral hygiene routine can help prevent serious oral health problems, such as gum disease. Gum disease impacts two out of three adults aged 65 and older in the United States.

In mild cases, gums can become inflamed, swollen, and irritated. This is called gingivitis. The irritated gum tissue begins to pull away from the tooth, and the worse it gets, the less secure your teeth are.

Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. It can lead to bone and tissue loss, as well as tooth loss. As it progresses, teeth may start to feel loose or move around in the mouth.

Ongoing studies show that people with gum disease are more likely to have heart attacks, strokes, or other serious health events.

Quit tobacco and limit alcohol to prevent oral cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco and excessive alcohol use are the strongest risk factors for oral cancer. This is because tobacco and alcohol are carcinogenic, meaning they have the capability to cause cancer. Most carcinogens, like tobacco and chemicals found in alcohol, work by “interacting with a cell’s DNA to produce mutations.”

Quitting tobacco products and cutting down on alcohol consumption can help reduce your risk of developing the disease and is a good way to maintain oral health.

The American Cancer Society predicts that 58,450 people will get oral or oropharyngeal cancer in 2024. Oral cancer can affect your gums, tongue, lips, teeth, throat, tonsils, and other soft tissues in the mouth. In the United States, the average age of a person diagnosed with oral cancer is 64.

If you need help quitting, there are local resources available to support you right now.

Invest in dental insurance to maintain oral health

The best way to maintain oral health as an older adult is to invest in dental insurance. If you don’t have coverage through an employer, there are other affordable options available such as individual plans. Dental insurance makes it easy to see providers for preventive check-ups and can help cover some of the costs for procedures you may need as you age.

Choosing the right dental plan is essential for maintaining optimal oral health in older adults. Contact us today to learn more about your coverage options and how we can help you keep your smile healthy.

Start now to maintain oral health as you age

By following these tips, older adults can take proactive steps to maintain their oral health. Remember, a healthy mouth is key to a healthy body, and with proper care, it's possible to enjoy good dental health at any age.