Dentists hear lots of reasons for why people cannot or do not practice proper dental care, all of which can have a detrimental effect on overall health. But as we age, we need to pay particularly close attention to our dental health since there is a direct correlation between our dental health and some of the serious illnesses that affect us in our older years.
Untreated gum disease is one of those issues that can have a major effect on your overall health. This problem can result in loss of both teeth and bone. Oral bacteria can travel through the gum tissues into the bloodstream and throughout the body—including to the heart valves. That in turn can contribute to plaque buildup, narrowing the arteries, and contributing to a heart attack or stroke. Bleeding and swollen gums are the symptoms of gum disease. You can usually solve this problem with dental cleanings every six months and routine home care.
Most patients want to brush and floss regularly. However, as we get older, this can be easier said than done. Diminished vision, loss of dexterity, and conditions like arthritis can all play a role here. Electric toothbrushes, dental floss picks and water flossers can take some of the challenges out of the equation, and make it easier to achieve good oral hygiene.
Diabetic patients should be aware that it is much more difficult to control infections with diabetes. Since diabetes can negatively affect your immune system, any dental infection can be much more of a challenge to control.
Another thing to keep in mind is that dry mouth (xerostomia) may be caused by many different medications. Dry mouth can have a terrible effect on oral health. For this reason, you should be keeping your mouth moist by staying hydrated all day and utilizing a dental rinse/mouthwash. You might be surprised at how much food debris a good rinse can remove from your mouth. Your diet can also play a role here; snacks like nuts and fresh fruit can help keep your saliva production up and are healthier snacks than many of the choices out there.
Tooth sensitivity can also be a troublesome issue. This is sometimes caused by recession or improper brushing, which can contribute to the loss of tooth enamel. There are several commercial toothpastes available for those with sensitive teeth. These toothpastes have medications to reduce sensitivity. Another tip is to use soft or extra soft toothbrushes. This will reduce recession and sensitivity and still do an excellent job of cleaning your teeth.
Patients with dentures should make sure they fit properly. Ill-fitting dentures cause sores inside your mouth, making it difficult to chew well—which can affect your ability to digest your food. This can be especially harmful to those who already have digestive issues.
Observing these and other practices can promote not only a great smile but a healthy body–something we all should be striving for, to make the best of the years ahead.
[White Plains Hospital]
Dr. Joseph Leanza is Director of Dental Services at the newly opened White Plains Hospital Dental Care office in White Plains. To make an appointment, call 914-849-3488.
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18 Apr 2024
0 Commentsa healthy smile
Dentists hear lots of reasons for why people cannot or do not practice proper dental care, all of which can have a detrimental effect on overall health. But as we age, we need to pay particularly close attention to our dental health since there is a direct correlation between our dental health and some of the serious illnesses that affect us in our older years.
Untreated gum disease is one of those issues that can have a major effect on your overall health. This problem can result in loss of both teeth and bone. Oral bacteria can travel through the gum tissues into the bloodstream and throughout the body—including to the heart valves. That in turn can contribute to plaque buildup, narrowing the arteries, and contributing to a heart attack or stroke. Bleeding and swollen gums are the symptoms of gum disease. You can usually solve this problem with dental cleanings every six months and routine home care.
Most patients want to brush and floss regularly. However, as we get older, this can be easier said than done. Diminished vision, loss of dexterity, and conditions like arthritis can all play a role here. Electric toothbrushes, dental floss picks and water flossers can take some of the challenges out of the equation, and make it easier to achieve good oral hygiene.
Diabetic patients should be aware that it is much more difficult to control infections with diabetes. Since diabetes can negatively affect your immune system, any dental infection can be much more of a challenge to control.
Another thing to keep in mind is that dry mouth (xerostomia) may be caused by many different medications. Dry mouth can have a terrible effect on oral health. For this reason, you should be keeping your mouth moist by staying hydrated all day and utilizing a dental rinse/mouthwash. You might be surprised at how much food debris a good rinse can remove from your mouth. Your diet can also play a role here; snacks like nuts and fresh fruit can help keep your saliva production up and are healthier snacks than many of the choices out there.
Tooth sensitivity can also be a troublesome issue. This is sometimes caused by recession or improper brushing, which can contribute to the loss of tooth enamel. There are several commercial toothpastes available for those with sensitive teeth. These toothpastes have medications to reduce sensitivity. Another tip is to use soft or extra soft toothbrushes. This will reduce recession and sensitivity and still do an excellent job of cleaning your teeth.
Patients with dentures should make sure they fit properly. Ill-fitting dentures cause sores inside your mouth, making it difficult to chew well—which can affect your ability to digest your food. This can be especially harmful to those who already have digestive issues.
Observing these and other practices can promote not only a great smile but a healthy body–something we all should be striving for, to make the best of the years ahead.
[White Plains Hospital]