Oral health is something that matters at all stages of life although the challenges do change as the years go by. What worked for us in our twenties or thirties does not always cover the needs of our fifties, sixties and beyond. Teeth and gums, like the rest of our body, go through wear and tear and changes over time. That is natural, but it also means that we need to adjust the way that we look after them.
At the Smile Dental Practice Bromley, we regularly speak with patients who have noticed changes in various aspects of their mouth. Some are small inconveniences while others affect comfort. Sometimes there are aesthetic concerns too. Understanding what’s going on and knowing the options that are available can make all the difference.
One of the most common issues that arises as people get older is gum disease. Plaque and tartar build up quietly over the years, and if they aren’t removed effectively, they start to damage the gums and the bone that hold teeth in place. Even patients who have always brushed carefully can develop problems because the gums simply become more vulnerable with age.
Gum problems and tooth loss make eating more difficult, can alter speech, and over time even changes the way the face looks because of the loss of support in the jaw.
This is why we recommend that regular dental hygienist appointments are maintained at every stage of life.
Another frequent concern is dry mouth, known as xerostomia. This is often caused by medications that we increasingly take as we become older. Some drugs used for common conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease can reduce saliva flow.
Saliva is vital because it helps neutralise acids, washes away food particles, and protects against tooth decay. Without enough saliva, patients can find themselves with more cavities and sore gums. A dry mouth can also make the wearing of dentures more uncomfortable.
There are ways to ease the problem. Staying well hydrated, using sugar-free gum, or trying special rinses and gels can all help. In some cases, altering the timing of medication is possible, but that is something you must discuss with your doctor as well as the dentist.
Decades of chewing, occasional grinding, and exposure to acids from food and drink all leave their mark. Teeth can wear down, enamel becomes thinner, and sensitivity often follows. Hot tea, cold water, or even a breath of cool air can trigger discomfort or pain.
Treatment depends on the cause. If grinding is an issue, a custom night guard may be advised. If erosion is the main culprit, restorative treatments such as bonding, crowns or porcelain dental veneers can rebuild shape and help to protect the surface.
It’s easy to assume that older patients focus only on functionality, but in reality appearance matters too. A smile plays a big role in confidence at every age. Discolouration is a common frustration because teeth naturally darken over time, and drinks such as tea, coffee, and red wine can certainly add to the staining.
Professional teeth whitening is a straightforward and safe way to whiten discoloured teeth. For those that are heavily stained or perhaps also damaged, veneers or crowns may be a better option. Even subtle changes can refresh a smile and give a real boost in self-esteem.
The risk of oral cancer increases with age, which is why screening is so important. During every routine appointment we carry out a simple but careful check of the cheeks, tongue, and soft tissues of the oral cavity for any changes. It takes just a minute or two and most of the time everything is fine, but spotting unusual signs early can make a huge difference to any necessary treatment outcomes.
Many people notice their teeth look longer as they get older, hence the saying ‘long in the tooth’. This is usually caused by gum recession, where the gums pull back slightly and expose the roots. Receding gums can cause sensitivity and leave root surfaces more prone to decay.
Treatment for this varies depending on the severity. Advice may include gentler brushing techniques, switching to a softer brush, or using desensitising toothpaste.
For patients who have already lost teeth, replacement is important for both function and appearance. Modern dentures are far more comfortable and natural-looking than those of the past. Dental implants, however, provide an excellent fixed option that both looks and feels much like natural teeth and provides strength and stability when eating as well.
At the Smile Dental Practice Bromley, we talk patients through the advantages and limitations of each option so the choice fits lifestyle as well as budget. There is no single solution that works for everyone, but there are good options for almost every situation.
Ageing brings changes, but it doesn’t mean that you have to give up on a comfortable, functional, and confident smile. With the right care and the benefit of modern treatments, it is possible to maintain good oral health long into later life.
If you have noticed any differences in your mouth or simply want advice on improving your smile, please don’t hesitate to arrange an appointment with us. We believe that oral health care is part of overall wellbeing, and that every patient deserves to enjoy their smile at every stage of life. Book your appointment with us today by calling our Bromley dental clinic on 020 8462 2473.
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