By Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD
The Toothboss, www.toothboss.com
In more than 40 years as a dentist, I’ve come to appreciate the unique challenges seniors face when it comes to oral health, which is why it surprises me a bit when some of my older patients are surprised to learn that their mouths need just as much attention now – if not more – than they did when they were younger. That’s why in a perfect world, I’d sit down with every senior I could find and chat about dental care.
Here are five things I’d want them to know:
- Losing teeth as you age is not normal
Many people assume that losing teeth is just a part of getting older. It’s not. Your natural teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. Tooth loss usually results from preventable issues like gum disease, untreated cavities, or worn dental work. So, if you notice loose teeth or bleeding gums, don’t wait. Get it checked out ASAP! - Dry mouth is more than just annoying
Medications or medical conditions cause dry mouth. Sure, it’s annoying. It also increases your risk of cavities and gum disease because saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles. If your mouth feels dry often, talk to your dentist. Making simple adjustments – e.g., sipping water frequently, using a humidifier, or trying over-the-counter saliva substitutes – can make a big difference. - Patients with dentures
Having dentures does not mean you can skip dental visits. Far from it. Dentures need to be cleaned daily, and your gums and mouth still require regular checkups. If your dentures don’t fit right, they can cause sore spots, infections, or even bone loss in the jaw over time. Another concern: Some think because they have no teeth left, there’s no need to have X-rays taken. There are plenty of diseases of the jaws (like cancer) that can go undetected without a regular checkup every year or two. A full denture wearer need not be seen every year, but 10-20 years or never is taking a chance some type of pathology of the jaw will not be detected in a timely fashion. So keep your regularly scheduled checkup, so your dentist can check the fit, clean the appliance, and monitor your overall oral health. - Gum disease is silent and serious
Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain, particularly in the early stages. It’s largely why it’s often overlooked. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and is even linked to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. If your gums bleed when you brush, feel tender, or seem to be pulling away from your teeth, tell your dentist. - Regular checkups are still important
“I feel fine – I don’t think I need a cleaning.” I’ve heard that more than a few times. It’s a trap, as some oral health problems don’t show symptoms until further along. A regular dental exam helps us catch issues early, before costly complications set in. Even if you have no issues, a professional cleaning can remove plaque and tartar that you simply can’t reach with a toothbrush or floss.
The bottom line
Getting older doesn’t mean giving up on your smile. In fact, maintaining your oral health is a vital part of staying healthy overall. For seniors, I’ve seen how a healthy mouth can boost confidence, support good nutrition, and even help prevent serious illness. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit – or if you have questions about your current care – don’t hesitate to reach out. Your smile is worth it.
About the Author: Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD is the owner of The Toothboss, 1121 Main St., South Weymouth. For more information, call 781-335-0604 or visit www.toothboss.com.
