People are living longer and keeping their natural teeth longer these days. At one time aging and dentures seemed to go hand-in-hand, but no more. However, with age comes a whole new set of dental issues, especially for women. Women are not only dealing with the issues of aging, but they are also dealing with postmenopausal changes which can put them at risk for a number of health issues. As you age, it is important to continue to maintain good dental hygiene and to seek out a dentist that understands the needs of seniors and offers mature dental services.
Dental Health and Aging
As you age your body changes and health issues can begin to develop. Some of these issues include diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, and cancer. These illnesses can affect your dental health either indirectly or directly. While arthritis may not affect your teeth or gums directly, people with arthritis may find it hard to brush and floss which can put their dental health at risk. Diabetes, on the other hand, does affect your dental health directly. Diabetics are at higher risk for periodontal disease due to higher sugar levels in their oral cavity. Medications for such health issues or other diseases can promote tooth decay and gingivitis.
Your Dentist
It is important to find a dentist that understands the special needs of mature patients. Dr. Huffstutler knows that those needs include:
- Dry mouth
- Gum disease
- Thrush
- Root decay
- Stained, discolored, or darkened teeth
- Tooth loss
- Degenerative bone loss
- Oral cancer
- Diminished taste
ABOUT YOUR NORTH RICHLAND HILLS DENTIST:
With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact our office today by calling 817-918-3038.