Almost 50 percent of adults over the age of 65 say a smile is the first thing they notice about other people, according to a study by the American Dental Association. With age, oral health care is even more important than ever, yet many older adults may avoid dental care due to limited finances, lack of dental insurance or because they believe their limited life span doesn't warrant the expense. A healthy mouth and gums not only ensure a pleasant smile, but may make the difference between chronic disease and a vital old age.
Tooth Loss
With age, receding gums increase the likelihood of decay and infection. Although tooth decay is a common chronic disease, scrupulous oral care that includes brushing and flossing daily is the best preventative measure. Left untreated, gingvitus--or inflamed gums--can advance to periodontitis, an oral infection that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, and destroys the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. Although age alone increases the risk factor for developing gum disease, older adults who take several medications are more likely to experience dry mouth, a condition that reduces the flow of saliva and increases the risk of infection and tooth decay, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
Inflammatory Diseases
Increasing evidence suggests periodontal disease is a causal factor in several other diseases. People who have difficulties with blood sugar are more inclined to develop periodontal disease than diabetic patients who control blood sugar levels; and periodontal disease directly affects the ability to control diabetes, according to The Gum Disease -- Diabetes Project. Inflammation is directly related to heart disease and may account for some previously unexplained heart attacks, says the Cleveland Clinic. Some cardiologists suggest all patients at risk for heart disease should have a C-reactive protein test to determine the level of inflammation present in their bodies.
Respiratory Complications
Excessive oral bacteria can weaken the immune system and worsen chronic health conditions such as emphysema and other lung conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although the medical community believes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is caused by long-term smoking and other environmental toxins, some suggest the bacteria from untreated oral infections can travel to the lungs and cause repeated infections in COPD patients, says the American Academy of Periodontology.
References
- Perio.org: Oral Health and Older Adults
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
- The Gum Disease-Diabetes Project: Questions and Answers About Diabetes and Gum Disease
- Cleveland Clinic: Role of Inflammation -- Growing Proof Inflammation is a Major Risk Factor for Heart Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Periodontal Disease-Complications
