People are now leading much longer lives than our predecessors. Dental concerns for aging people present a unique set of challenges. Here at Layton Lakes Dental, we offer treatment that is tailored to meet the needs of our elderly patients – those 65 years and older.
Among the conditions associated with aging is dry mouth, root and coronal caries, or decay on the root or tooth surface, and periodontitis. Patients may also have higher sensitivity to drugs used in dental work, including local anesthetics and pain relievers.
Medications that are frequently taken by the geriatric population may contribute to tooth and root decay. One common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. But it is a side-effect in more than 500 medications, including those used to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, anxiety or depression, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Treatment for dry mouth is varied and much can be done to allay problems:
- Use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production.
- Avoid foods and beverages that exacerbate dry mouth: coffee, alcohol, soft drinks, and acidic fruit juices.
- Use of prescription mouth rinses, specifically for dry mouth.
- Stay hydrated.
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (480) 306-5506.