The Increasing Importance of Dental Visits with Age
The aging process can be a beautiful thing. Family connections deepen, wisdom grows and more free time begins to open up. After all, they are called the “golden years” for a reason. However, it is not without its pitfalls – especially when it comes to health-related issues. As your body grows older, certain functions can begin to break down. For example, muscle mass starts to decrease more rapidly and it becomes more difficult for your body to absorb nutrients. Older people can also be prone to more dental health issues.
The factors that accompany aging can lead to more serious dental health issues among older adults, and why dentures have become such a common trope associated with advanced age. Fortunately, with a steadfast commitment to regular dental visits, you can help delay (or even prevent) the need for dentures as you enter your own golden years. Below are just a few of the reasons why dental visits become so important with age.
Excessive Wear
From chewing tough foods to exerting countless pounds of pressure with each bite, teeth are designed to withstand a great deal. However, unlike bones, they do not regenerate. This means that a lifetime of use can really wear on teeth. Not only can this wear affect the teeth’s structure and functionality, but it also tends to affect enamel. Enamel is the thin yet extremely hard shell that covers a tooth. With age, it can thin, crack or be worn away altogether. This leaves the teeth much weaker and more vulnerable than they once were. As such, it is important to visit the dentist regularly so that they can identify any issues that may result from affected enamel and develop a treatment plan.
Receding Gumlines
With age, many people begin to lose gum tissue and their gums begin to recede. This leaves a greater portion of the tooth exposed. As a result, there is a larger surface area upon which cavities can develop. Cavities are never a good thing; however, they become increasingly dangerous with advanced age. Since teeth have been worn down and enamel has been lost, cavities can decay at a much faster rate, thus compromising the health and condition of the tooth. When teeth are weakened, it can be more difficult for a dentist to perform a root canal procedure to salvage one that has lost material from decay. This makes the need for an extraction much more likely.
While teeth do indeed become more vulnerable with age, regular visits to the right dentist can help keep them in better shape. These visits lead to better oral health and a reduced likelihood of tooth loss, both of which are things to smile about.
If you wish to learn more about a Broomfield dental practice treating people of all ages with extensive experience working with older patients, contact Petersen Family Dentistry today! Give our office a call at (720) 308–9798.
