3 Common Dental Problems For Middle-Aged Men And Women
A lot of people think that dental problems are most often experienced by young children who don't know how to properly care for their teeth. While there are many dental problems that children can suffer from, men and women who are middle-aged and above are not immune to problems with their oral health. Listed below are three common dental problems that people should be aware that they are at risk for, along with tips for preventing and/or treating them.
1. Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis, is characterized by swollen, red gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop further into periodontitis, where the gums pull completely away from the tooth, leading to an increased risk for infection. The best way to prevent gingivitis is to visit your dentist regularly so that he or she can let you know if signs of gingivitis are starting to present themselves. As they get older, many adults start to neglect their dental health, but it is important to keep up your visits as you age.
2. Sensitivity
As teeth begin to decay and fillings and enamel begin to wear, you might notice an increase in your sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks. Sensitivity is highly common, especially in middle-aged and older adults because many of the causes (various forms of wear and tear on the teeth) are associated with aging. To help treat and prevent sensitivity, talk to your dentist about toothpastes and mouthwashes intended for individuals with sensitive teeth. There are a variety of these products available in all price ranges, so you can get the care you need regardless of your budget.
3. Dry Mouth
As you age, your saliva production decreases, leading to dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. Saliva helps clean the mouth by controlling the amount of fungi and bacteria present, so low saliva production can lead to an increase in the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which in turn can lead to an increase in tooth decay. The easiest way to help combat the negative side-effects of dry mouth is to increase your body's production of saliva by sucking on sugar-free mints or candy, drinking water, or using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
When you are a middle-aged or elderly adult, you have different dental concerns than you did as a child or young adult. Keep the three conditions listed above in mind as you start to adapt your oral care, and you'll be able to maintain a great smile for years to come. For more information, visit sites like http://www.pikedentistry.com.