Your teeth, gums and mouth age with you, and as you enter your senior years you may find that you have different oral health needs than you did when you were younger. Here at Park Central Dental, we offer geriatric dentistry to address those needs and help you continue to enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile and lifestyle as you age. Our dentists and team provide these treatments in-office as well as through visits to assisted living facilities. We are committed to helping you receive the care you need.
What is Geriatric Dentistry?
Geriatric dentistry, also known as senior dentistry or gerodontics, is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and dental care of elderly individuals. As people age, their oral health needs can change significantly and cause them to face unique challenges which require special care and attention, making it crucial to have dental professionals who understand and cater to these specific requirements.
Common Oral Health Problems For Seniors
There are several oral health issues that are particularly prevalent among seniors, including:
- Tooth Decay and Cavities: As people age, they may become more susceptible to tooth decay, which can lead to cavities. Dry mouth, reduced saliva production and dietary changes can contribute to this issue.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, becomes more common with age. This can lead to gum recession, tooth mobility and even tooth loss if left untreated.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Seniors may experience increased tooth sensitivity due to receding gums and the exposure of sensitive tooth roots.
- Oral Cancer: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, making regular oral cancer screenings crucial for early detection and treatment.
- Tooth Loss: Aging often leads to tooth loss, which can affect speech, diet and self-esteem. Geriatric dentistry offers solutions such as dentures, dental implants and bridges to restore function and aesthetics.
- Medication-Related Oral Health Issues: Many seniors take multiple medications that can have side effects impacting their oral health, such as dry mouth or gum overgrowth.
- Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of other conditions, and our dentists may recommend preventive measures, such as fluoride gelts, dietary modifications, increased water consumptions, lozenges or chewing gum to help relieve the effects.
- Systemic Conditions Affecting Oral Health: Age-related illnesses or pre-existing medical conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, etc.) may impact your oral health. Gum disease in particular has been linked to a number of systemic conditions. This makes maintaining your oral health critical to your continued overall wellbeing.
Schedule An Appointment
Contact us today at 214-340-9696 to make your appointment with Dr. Mazin Nakhleh, Dr. Laura Fisher or Dr. Shohreh Sharifi and learn how geriatric dentistry in Dallas, Texas, can benefit you!