We feel that good habits of effective daily brushing, diet, and use of fluoride will help the aging person adapt to changing conditions.  Reduced salivary flow and addition of medications will affect oral health dramatically.

Changes of the teeth and gums:

We have noted that teeth will darken because of long-term exposure to plaque and changes in the dentin within the tooth. The gums may recede and uncover the roots.  Exposed roots will be darker than the enamel part of the tooth and are prone to decay.  Fillings can decay and darken, too, as they weaken over time.

"Dry Mouth" may develop: Saliva is useful to lubricate, wash away plaque, and neutralize the acid produced by plaque.  Flow of saliva can be reduced by a medical disorder or be a side effect of antihistamine, decongestants, pain killers or diuretics.

The build-up of plaque will accelerate tooth decay.  There will also be more gum infection which will cause a loss of bone support for the teeth.  Poorly-fitting or poorly-cleaned dentures, illness, and some medications increase the severity of the problem.

For more information regarding dental problems of the elderly, please call Mesilla Valley Center for Dental Medicine at (575) 523-5589 today.

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