Nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal, or gum, disease. However, for those 65 and older, about 60% of them have this condition. This statistic can be worrying, but you might be more curious about what makes it prevalent in this age range. Understanding the risk factors can help you better protect your smile, so here’s what you need to know.
What Makes Older Adults More Likely to Have Gum Disease?
As a quick refresher, gum disease is an infection in the soft tissues of your mouth. A common cause is poor dental hygiene, as plaque builds up along the gumline and attacks it. However, there are a few other culprits, such as:
- Certain Health Conditions: If you have diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or other systemic conditions, they can weaken your immune system. When unmanaged, your body may struggle to fight against bacteria.
- Unhealthy Habits: Using tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and teeth grinding or clenching can be trouble.
- Some Medications: Medicines you take may have dry mouth as a side effect. When you can’t produce enough saliva, harmful germs can linger longer and lead to infection.
- Hormonal Changes: This can happen during menopause and other times, but they can make your gums inflamed and sensitive.
How You Can Prevent Gum Disease
If you find you have some of the risk factors above, that doesn’t mean you will definitely get gum disease. You can still prevent it, so you should be diligent about your oral hygiene routine. Keep brushing and flossing twice a day to remove bacteria that are the problem in the first place.
If you are a smoker or drink alcohol, then consider quitting or limiting these habits. Teeth grinding and clenching might seem tough to avoid, but your dentist can get you a nightguard to protect your teeth during the night. Don’t forget to have a balanced diet and manage chronic conditions. That way, you support your body and ensure they don’t cause complications.
In the end, have routine visits with your dentist. By seeing them twice a year, they can spot the initial symptoms and get them treated before it’s a bigger headache. That way, your gum health stays in great shape as you show off your grin.
About the Practice
Ready for a stronger smile? Our team at Westbury Dental Spa is dedicated to helping people of all ages protect their teeth and gums with a wide range of treatments. Led by compassionate dentists, we can spot the warning signs of gum disease and give you the prompt care you deserve. That way, you can avoid complications down the line. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 516-282-5100.