Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Your Teeth when You Are Elderly

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Teeth and the Elderly

It’s a fact, we are living longer than ever before in the history of man. Medicine continues to provide us with the means to live well into our 80’s and 90’s on a regular basis. As medicine has done so much to enhance the efficiency of our heart, lungs and many organs what is happening to our teeth?

Our teeth are becoming the “victims” of the advances of science. Many of the medications that our elderly population is taking have an indirect effect on our oral health. One of the side effects of these life prolonging medications is xerostomia or dry mouth. With the reduction in saliva, bacteria which usually are washed-out or neutralized, remain in the mouth and can wreak havoc. These are the same “bugs” that cause cavities and contribute to periodontal disease.

How can we protect our teeth and prevent the damage from decay and gum disease? The most obvious is lots of brushing and flossing; and that can be enhanced as well with ultrasonic toothbrushes and toothpaste with a higher concentration of fluoride. Stimulating saliva is the key! Sugarless lemon drops are a great way to get saliva flowing and drink lots of water to keep your mouth moist.

If it has been a while since you have had your teeth examined and cleaned, please give us a call at 561-394-900. We will arrange an appointment that fits your schedule to make sure your mouth is and remains healthy.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.