Tooth Decay in Seniors

At All Coast Dental, we put particular emphasis on oral care for seniors. Children are the demographic cavities most commonly occur in, but seniors are the second-most vulnerable. According to the most recent information from the Centers for Disease Control, one in five seniors had untreated tooth decay, making this a vital issue for seniors’ comfort and health.

Members of older generations usually did not have access to fluoridated water while their teeth were developing, making them particularly vulnerable to tooth decay (also known as dental lesions or caries). However, cavities commonly develop in seniors who previously had good oral health, implying that something changed which made their oral hygiene more difficult. There are a number of possible causes: poor dexterity, forgetfulness, change in diet to foods that are stickier or likelier to get caught between the teeth, and loss of dental care coverage, for example. Seniors also are commonly on medications with side effects that put them at higher risk for tooth decay. Dry mouth is a common side effect of cancer medications which makes it more difficult for the body to remove food debris and keep bacteria growth under control.

Seniors benefit from using toothpaste with extra fluoridation and throat moistening products. We can also introduce them to products appropriate for their specific needs while carrying out regular cleanings.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.