Aging - Increased Oral Health Risk

Tariq Drabu, a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon, has advised that aging increases the risk of  poor oral health and having a good oral health routine from a young age and ensuring that you continue caring for your teeth is the best way to preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible.

Increased risk of tooth decay

Tariq Drabu did mention that one of the biggest concerns as we age is that our teeth wear. Even though following a fantastic oral hygiene routine at home will improve the level of oral health you experience in older age, it will not reduce your risk of having some cavities at some stage. No matter how much care you take, your teeth will wear down and in turn, this will result in your tooth decay risk being increased.

He recommends that any sensitivity should be investigated by a dentist immediately. Older patients should also not miss their routine dental appointment, enabling the dentist to identify problems as soon as possible.

Dry Mouth

As you age, you will be on certain medications for different conditions, some of these medications can result in dry mouth. Dry mouth is a serious condition that reduces saliva production and as a result allows bacteria to stick to the teeth. Saliva is alkaline and helps to protect the teeth against acids and bacteria.

Gum Disease

As you age your fine motor skills deteriorate, which can make it harder for you to brush and floss effectively. Without proper brushing and flossing, you miss plaque, which builds up to become sticky tartar and in turn, this can lead to gum disease. If you notice any of the gum disease signs, Tariq Drabu recommends visiting the dentist soonest. Gingivitis is mild gum disease, but the risk of serious periodontal disease is very real in older patients.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a very serious risk of any older patients. More than seven thousand people are diagnosed with this cancer every single year in the United Kingdom. The majority, around ninety percent, are due to lifestyle choices. According to Tariq Drabu, the risk of getting this cancer is increased with age.