Cincinnati, Ohio dentist explains seniors’ dental problems and treatments

The importance of quality dental care is well-known. Following good oral hygiene at home and regularly visiting the dentist is important for children and for seniors. With age, oral and overall health needs change and may require attention. Cincinnati, Ohio area dentists, Drs. Jesal Patel and Shawn Dornhecker, offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.

Dental problems and treatments

Age alone is not the factor that determines oral health. Conditions or medications that come with age may affect your health. For example, arthritis in the hands may make it harder to brush and floss as effectively. Certain drugs have side effects such as dry mouth that can impact your oral health.

Advancing age puts seniors at risk for oral health problems. These issues may include:

• Darkened teeth can stem from years of poor lifestyle and food choices affecting the enamel of the teeth. As the enamel thins, the underlying yellowed dentin shows through.
• Tooth decay may occur due to a poor diet or lack of good hygiene.
• Dry mouth is caused by diminished saliva flow.
• Diminished sense of taste can come with age. It can also be caused by medications, diseases, or dentures.
• Root decay comes as the gum line recedes to expose the root, which does not have the same protective enamel.
• Gum disease is extremely common. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, decay, ill-fitting dental devices, and diseases.
• Tooth loss is often a result of advanced stages of gum disease.

Following good oral habits at home is a crucial part of maintaining your dental health and preventing problems at any age. Brush, floss, and rinse regularly. Maintaining routine dental appointments is important for seniors. Use your appointments as a time to discuss your concerns or to let your dentist know if you are experiencing changes in your oral health. The earlier dental problems are addressed, the more successful the treatments.

As dentists for seniors and patients of all ages, our team offers comprehensive dental care. Contact our offices in Bridgetown at (513) 815-3188 or in Fairfield at (513) 815-3166 to schedule a consultation.