The Importance of Dental Checkups for Seniors

Dental checkups remain important at every stage of life. Senior citizens can continue to benefit from prioritizing oral healthcare, which includes routine appointments with a general dentist. Although dental checkups will always focus on maintaining good oral health, the method varies depending on the patient's age.

Dental checkups: Focus and benefits for seniors

Senior citizens can expect dental checkups to follow the same general format as they age: dental X-rays, dental cleaning, and oral exams. Patients are encouraged to voice concerns to the general dentist when they first sit in the dentist's chair, although they can also discuss them during the oral exam. Common concerns include tooth pain and sensitivity. However, as one ages, concerns may turn to tooth loss, medication side effects, and denture care.

Explore the key benefits of dental checkups for seniors below:

Prevent oral health issues

Like for patients of any age, dental checkups are a crucial form of preventive oral healthcare: Routinely scaling away plaque and tartar can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. This is crucial as age makes patients more prone to developing these oral health conditions. For instance, gum tissue and enamel wear away as time passes. The teeth themselves also become less sensitive, making it easier for problems to go undetected by the patient.

Avoid tooth loss

Dental checkups allow a general dentist to catch existing issues early on. If tooth decay or gum disease occurs, the dentist can treat it before it results in tooth loss. This can save the patient time, money, and the pain of losing a permanent tooth.

Minimize the impact of medications on oral health

Many senior citizens take one or more medications to manage a health condition. Further, many of these medications cause dry mouth as a side effect. With less saliva to flush out bacteria, dry mouth makes it easier for plaque to form into tartar. A general dentist can limit the impact of dry mouth on a patient's oral health through more frequent dental cleanings. As per the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dentists may also recommend the following:

• Chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production
• Using a prescription saliva substitute
• Staying hydrated throughout the day
• Limiting caffeine, spice, or salty foods
• Using a humidifier in the home

Maintain dental restorations

Dental restorations and tooth replacements are long-lasting. However, the longest most can last is between five and 15 years. At every checkup, a general dentist can check the status of dental fillings, crowns, implants, and bridges. They can repair any issues or recommend a replacement restoration as needed. Dentists can also help maintain and reline dentures.