Geriatric Dentistry is that branch of dentistry dedicated to the elderly patients above the age of 60. Just the fact that we have a specialized branch dedicated to care for the elderly shows how important and significant it is. But over the past few years, I have realised my older patients are my favorite patients!
For me in my office, old is the new young today! it’s a pleasure to treat my older patients. They are young at heart, have time to spend and are never rushed, always have a kind word to say and full of good advice. They definitely want to look good and are always ready to experiment with tooth whitening, veneers or implants if their general health permits. Of course, patients need to be careful when deciding which treatment they would like to help improve their oral health as different procedures have their own pros and cons. Getting veneers is one of the most common treatments done for patients above the age of 60 so take a look at this uksmiles article on the pros and cons of veneers to find out more about it.
The link between Medications and Cavities
I have older patients who come in and complain of how they’ve suddenly started developing cavities when they had none earlier. This is very commonly linked to a condition called Dry Mouth. Though Dry Mouth is a normal part of aging it is also associated as a side effect with a large number of medication the patient may be taking. Including those for allergies or asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pain, anxiety or depression, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
You will need to keep your mouth re-hydrated all the time and these are some common recommendations:
- Consult with your physician on whether to change the medication or dosage.
- Drink more water. Carry a water bottle with you, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Your mouth needs constant lubrication.
- Use sugarfree gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production.
- Avoid foods and beverages that irritate dry mouths, like coffee, alcohol, carbonated soft drinks, and acidic fruit juices.
- Your dentist may apply a fluoride gel or varnish to protect your teeth from cavities.
- Over the counter sprays are available that can be used to keep the mouth hydrated.
Gum Disease
Many older adults have gum or periodontal, caused by the bacteria in plaque, which irritate the gums, making them swollen, red and more likely to bleed. Lack of dexterity may also prevent effective cleaning of the teeth.
Recommended Care:
Fortunately gum problems can be completely treated and reversible if identified early. Care would include:
- A three-month visit for a routine check and assisted prophylaxis if the patient has trouble maintaining the gums.
- Advise a water-jet that can be used more easily for areas in between the gums where recession may have taken place.
- Use of mouth washes.
What your dentist needs to know
If you have a heart condition or artificial joints be sure to tell your dentist. You may think it’s not relevant. After all, what do your heart and joints have to do with your teeth? But, there are conditions with a high risk of infection and an antibiotic is recommended prior to some dental procedures. Talk to your dentist about how these recommendations might apply to you.
Are any dental procedures to be avoided for the elderly?
Typically, there is no contra-indication for any dental procedures for the elderly as long as they have good general health. However medical conditions at this age are very common. Speaking to the concerned physician, a complete blood work-up and a written no objection certificate from the concerned physician are a must before proceeding with the dental treatment.
As the quality of our life gets better and life expectancy higher all our senior patients are entitled to great oral health and perfect teeth. Today our patients happily opt for implants, veneers, tooth whitening, root canals and crowns. And all of this with a bare minimal amount of discomfort. Looking good and feeling good is the motto of our senior, young at heart generation. So go ahead and get those teeth, your life needs to be complete so you can enjoy it to the fullest. I remember my seniormost full mouth implant patient was an 85-year-old gentleman and my appointments with him for dental implants would be the highlight of my day. He was full of stories and anecdotes and we’ve had good laughs together.
I sign off for now till I see you again next week.
Dr Shail Jaggi is a passionate dentist with specialisation in cosmetic dentistry and endodontics. She manages an Advanced Microscope Enhanced Practice – Dentalwiz dealing with all aspects of dentistry. Dr Jaggi is recipient of ‘Outstanding Dentist Of The Year -2015′
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