As your body ages so do your teeth, and as your body can begin to develop issues due to aging, your teeth can too. That is why visiting your dentist regularly as you age is important. There are common problems that develop in the mature mouth regardless of how attentive you are to your dental hygiene. These problems can range from dry mouth to periodontitis, the most advanced form of periodontal disease. Recent research has proven that the health of your mouth can affect the health of your overall body, so taking care of your oral health is a serious matter.
Diseases With Oral Symptoms
Over the years, experts have learned that there are many diseases that present with oral symptoms. Some diseases include:
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Deficiencies in diet
- Anemia
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Eating disorders
- Osteoporosis
Often dentists can find evidence of these diseases by carefully examining your gums, tongue, teeth, and testing saliva. Dry mouth, open sores, sores that don’t heal, fruity breath, bleeding gums, and infection can all signal disease in other parts of the body.
Dentures
While the percentage of people retaining their natural teeth has risen over the years, there are still people who require dentures. Dentures can present problems, too. For instance if they don’t fit correctly they can cause sores and discomfort, making it difficult to eat and speak. Patients may avoid leaving the house due to these issues becoming reclusive. Because it can be difficult to eat, food might be aspirated which means instead of going down into the stomach it goes into the lungs causing pneumonia.
As you can see aging teeth come with a whole different set of concerns and responsibilities compared to a child’s or young adults teeth. That’s why if you’re over 45 it is important to make sure your dental care is geared to the mature mouth.
ABOUT YOUR FT. WORTH, TX, 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 from across Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX, 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.