Judith Ann Jones, DDS, a spokeswoman for elder care at the American Dental Association, notes that people over age 50 are keeping their teeth longer than ever before. That’s good news for many people!
However, Dr. Jones also urges caution. As you age, it is common to see dental problems arise. You’ll want to maintain your regular dental visits and follow these dental care tips, especially if you’re aged 50 or older.
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Improper or sporadic brushing can lead to bacteria growth in your mouth, which typically results in red, sore, and bleeding gums when you do brush. This condition is known as gingivitis. And while the initial stages of gingivitis may not be too painful, gingivitis can lead to more serious forms of the disease. Gingivitis leads to periodontitis, which is a condition that can lead to tooth loss.
A recent study in Sweden, evaluating over 3,000 women, showed those who had gum disease and tooth loss had a greater risk of developing breast cancer – over 11 times more likely. Gum disease has been associated with other illnesses as well, such as heart disease, stroke, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, and low-birth weight and premature babies.
Complications that affect the mouth can develop in more than one-third of patients being treated for breast cancer. Side effects of treatment can include inflammation of the mouth (mucositis), infections, taste changes, dry mouth, mouth sores, tooth decay and gum disease.