Taking care of our health becomes even more important as we age, and dental health is no exception.
Unfortunately, dental visits can often fall to the bottom of our to-do lists.
Dr Raj Kengaiha from Dentist at Underwood said the longer an issue is left, “the more complicated it becomes”.
So why should seniors prioritize their dental check-ups? Here are some key reasons:
1. Dental health and overall health are linked
Poor dental health can contribute to a number of serious health conditions.
According Dr Raj, people with missing or untreated teeth may be be missing out on important nutrients because they are on a soft diet and eating too much mushy food.
The health consequences for seniors can be even worse because of the medications they might be on.
“[Medications] can impact the salivary flow, leading to a dry mouth which increases the risk of decay,” Dr Raj said.
Immunocompromised patients are also prone to fungal infections in the mouth, according to Dr Raj, particularly underneath dentures.
By keeping up with regular dental check-ups, seniors can reduce their risk of these complications and maintain better overall health.
2. It will boost your self confidence
Tooth loss can be a major concern for many seniors.
It not only affects the ability to chew but can also impact self-esteem.
Regular visits to the dentist can help prevent tooth loss by addressing problems early, like cavities or gum disease, before they become severe.
“The mouth is very dynamic and keeps changing,” Dr Raj said.
“The longer we leave an issue, the more complicated it becomes.”
Dr Raj said seniors who keep up with their dental care are far less likely to experience tooth loss and can avoid the need for costly procedures later on.
Other blows to self esteem include bad breath and stained teeth, which can often be linked to poor dental hygiene.
Neglecting these problems can lead to isolation and depression, and according to some studies, a decreased quality of life.
Being able to eat comfortably, smile confidently, and speak without hesitation can make a huge difference in your everyday life.
3. You’re bound to save money in the long-term
If health won’t make you book an appointment, maybe money will.
According to the experts, the better we look after our teeth, the less we will have to spend fixing them up in the future.
“If they are regular to the dentist and also look after their teeth, then definitely it will be less expensive in the long run,” Dr Raj said.
“If they are regular, mostly what they are looking at is regular checkup and cleans, fillings, restorations and maybe crowns to reinforce the teeth if they are constantly breaking.
“And they can keep most of their teeth, unless complicated by other issues.”
So, as the experts say, stay on top of your teeth.
