As you age, your body changes in all different types of ways, including your teeth, and the prospect of searching out geriatric dentistry will become essential. Aging is a natural process that no one can escape, and we are always searching for ways to slow the process down, prevent certain things from happening and keep us looking and feeling younger rather than older.
Maintaining a healthy and bright smile is one of the many ways a person can look and feel younger. A beautiful smile is one feature that will enhance every new encounter you make throughout your day—looking in the mirror in the morning and seeing bright, white, healthy teeth can set your tone for the entire day.
This is described as the delivery of dental care to older adults involving diagnosis, prevention, management, and treatment of age-related problems. Our society needs help when they become a senior member, and dentists play a very big part in this stage of a person’s life.
Our population is aging rapidly. It is projected that we will have a huge population of people over 65 by 2030. Geriatric dentists need to be prepared to have more than enough patients on their schedules.
Older patients will seek ways to help them with all different problems and complaints with the look and feel of their teeth and gums. A proper oral hygiene routine can only take a person so far. Some problems surface with aging that brushing and flossing daily will not prevent.
No matter what age they are, everyone should always schedule a routine dental examination every six months as recommended. During these essential visits, oral issues can be discovered and treated in their earliest stages.
You want all issues found as early as possible because if they can be fixed right away, you can prevent future damage down the road and save yourself a lot of pain and money. Your dentist has the same goal as you; they want you to keep your natural teeth healthy for as long as possible and in the future want you to remain pain-free and have good oral hygiene.
When a person reaches a certain age, they may develop health issues that affect their oral hygiene. Bone density can cause your enamel to thin and be more prone to teeth sensitivity and even gum disease, leading to needing a tooth extracted.
Tooth extraction can be done in your dentist’s office quickly. Having a tooth removed can benefit because it can stop the spread of any decay to neighboring healthy teeth. You can discuss replacing that space in your mouth with your dentist.
If you have undergone a tooth extraction, your dentist may recommend a dental implant. An implant is a great way to fill the space that now remains in your mouth. A dental implant is secured into your jaw with a screw and looks and feels like your natural tooth.
Although implants are a more expensive option, they are worth the price. You will not have to worry about the implant falling out, and you can take care of it just like a natural tooth.
Many aging adults that develop problems with their oral hygiene due to periodontal disease that has led to multiple missing teeth choose to have their dentists fit them with dentures. Dentures are a very popular way to replace your unhealthy teeth.
Your dentist will remove any remaining teeth and take measurements for your dentures. You may need partial dentures or a full set of dentures. The decision of which is something you can discuss with your dentist.
Whatever type of dentures you choose, you can be confident that you will have back your smile and healthy mouth in a matter of a few office visits.
It's never too late to start taking care of your oral health. If you are at the point in your life when you feel you need help with your oral hygiene, contact your dentist and make an appointment for a consultation.
Geriatric dentistry is at one of the most advanced stages it has ever been, and there are always new treatment options popping up. Don’t hesitate to discuss your oral health and get on course to get your confidence back. Your dentist is available to help you in any way they can. Reach out to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://joyfuldentalcare.com or call Joyful Dental Care at (773) 786-9560 for an appointment in our Chicago office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Geriatric Dentistry in Chicago, IL.
Have you ever suffered from an injury that left your teeth in pain? How do you know if you have an injured tooth? How can it be fixed? An injured tooth doesn’t have to be the end of the world, even though there are some instances where it can be fatal. Keep your teeth healthy…
A bad toothache could be characterized by a throbbing but dull pain in your jaw. A side of your jaw and mouth may also hurt as you bite on something. And the pain will double as you drink something cold. It could come in different forms. However, all these pains and aches only have one…
For patients who have been avoiding seeing a general dentist because of fear or apprehension, it may be helpful to know that they are not alone. A 2015 study published in Dental Research Journal found that 58.8% of dental patients surveyed experienced dental anxiety. For patients with severe dental phobia, there are several steps they…
Do you remember a time before you started to brush your teeth?Do you remember your first toothbrush?Did you have a favorite toothbrush? Was it your favorite color or superhero?Now, can you remember a time when you did not brush your teeth?Has toothbrushing ever not been a part of your daily routine; not been a priority…
When you have dentures, you no longer have to hide your smile or avoid being around other people. This treatment can also improve your oral health and allow you to eat a wider range of foods.Of course, wearing this apparatus does not let you eat anything. There are still certain foods you should avoid, so…
People who wear dentures typically have the same complaints. Although the types of dentures made today are fantastic compared to those from years ago, issues can still arise.The biggest concerns are slippage, discomfort, poor fit, and bad breath. The bad breath problem is often how others know when a person is wearing dentures.Along with big…
