Oral Health for Seniors

Research has shown that when your mouth is unhealthy, your general health and wellbeing suffer as a result. Read on to discover the tips, tricks and various options that are available to maintain, or gain a beautiful, healthy smile!

Age, general wear and tear, changes in diet and hormone levels and some medication can affect the health of your teeth and gums.  Oral health problems such as periodontal disease (or gum disease) can be related to heart disease and diabetes.  It is also responsible for bad breath and the loss of bone and tooth instability that many people experience.  Periodontal disease is caused by a build of bacterial in the pockets that forms between the tooth and gum tissue. It can't be cured but it can be managed if it is treated effectively.  Regular exams and cleaning with your dentist and hygienist will reduce your risk of gum disease and ensure a healthy mouth.  Simple brushing or cleaning alone will not treat periodontal disease and left untreated, it will cause tooth loss.

The loss of teeth is more common as we age, whether it be through periodontal disease, decay or breakage.  Chewing and biting function is normally affected when a tooth is lost and the tipping or over-eruption of adjacent or opposing teeth also causes problems.  Ideally missing teeth should be replaced.  Dentures, bridges or implants are all options for replacing missing teeth and your dentist can advise you which option is most suitable for you.  Patients who find dentures uncomfortable often opt for fixed bridges or implants.

Snoring often develops as we age and while snoring itself is not harmful, the often associated link with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can have significant effects on your health.  OSA is a serious and relatively common condition.  OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, car and truck accidents, work accidents and stroke.  It is caused by the muscles in the back of your throat relaxing and interfering with your breathing while you sleep.   Some signs of OSA include poor concentration, morning headaches, depressed mood, weight gain, high blood pressure, lack of energy, forgetfulness, reduced sex drive, night sweats and frequent urination at night.  If you snore or have some of the symptoms described, you should see your dentist have a sleep study done to make sure you don't have obstructive sleep apnea.  

Anzac Avenue Dental offers a range of dental services and a dedicated preventive care team to help you manage your oral health.  We are conveniently located on Anzac Avenue at Kallangur with onsite parking and easy access for patients with mobility concerns.  We have preferred provider and member choice arrangements with several health funds and we offer no gap services for Veteran Affairs Gold Card holders as well as a discount for people who hold a valid Seniors Card.  Call us on (07) 3491 8131 to book a new patient examination to get back on track with your dental care.