Aging and Your Oral Health: Insights from Guerra Dental
How does getting older affect your teeth? And how do changes in your teeth and your bite affect your looks and your health? As we age, it’s not just our skin and joints that feel the effects—our teeth and overall oral health are impacted too. Dr. Guerra at Guerra Dental has the answers, and he and his team are ready to help counteract those effects in a number of ways.
How Aging Affects Your Teeth
As we get older, our bodies go through a multitude of changes, and our mouths are no exception. One common issue among older adults is dry mouth, a condition often induced by medication side effects. Without sufficient saliva to cleanse the teeth and neutralize acids produced by plaque, the risk of cavities and gum disease increases.
Wear and tear over the years may also lead to enamel erosion, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Plus, years of consuming stain-causing food and drink can result in tooth discoloration, altering the aesthetics of your smile.
Further, conditions like osteoporosis can affect the jawbones that support our teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. Tooth loss isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it can impact speech, diet, and ultimately, your overall health.
The Impact of Changes in Your Teeth and Bite
Changes to your teeth and bite as you age don’t just affect your oral health—they can alter your appearance and overall well-being too. As we lose teeth, the remaining ones can shift, leading to changes in our bite that may cause difficulty chewing. Missing teeth can also result in the loss of bone in the jaw, leading to a change in face shape and a more aged appearance.
From a health perspective, improperly chewed food due to bite changes can lead to digestive problems. Moreover, studies suggest a correlation between oral health issues like gum disease and systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Countering the Effects of Aging on Oral Health at Guerra Dental
Understanding the challenges is the first step, but Dr. Guerra and his team at Guerra Dental are not just here to identify problems. They’re ready with a range of solutions to counteract the oral health impacts of aging.
From recommending specific oral hygiene routines for dry mouth to offering restorative procedures for tooth loss, such as implants and bridges, the team is equipped to handle the unique needs of older adults.
For cosmetic concerns, teeth whitening and veneers are available to restore the lustre of your smile. Moreover, regular check-ups can ensure early detection and intervention for any emerging issues, helping to maintain not just your oral health, but your overall wellness too.
Conclusion
Aging may be a natural process, but its impact on our oral health doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion. With the right knowledge and expert care, we can tackle these challenges head-on. Dr. Guerra and his team at Guerra Dental are committed to empowering patients with the understanding and solutions they need to maintain a healthy smile—no matter their age. Because at Guerra Dental, every patient deserves to smile with confidence and enjoy the vitality of good oral health.