As you get older, it’s more important than ever to prioritize your health, and because your oral health is directly linked to your overall health, routine preventive dental care is essential. We recommend a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months to keep your mouth healthy and happy.
Let’s explore some of the most common dental problems dentists see in adults over 40.
Common Dental Issues Over 40: What You Need to Know
After decades of wear and tear on your teeth, here are some common dental issues we see in adults over 40:
- Gum disease — If your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, it can cause tenderness and bleeding.
- Tooth decay — When your gums recede, it exposes your tooth’s roots. Because the enamel is softer in this area, you’re more likely to get cavities.
- Dry mouth — Certain medications can cause reduced saliva flow, leading to a dry mouth. Without enough saliva, you can’t effectively neutralize the acids in your mouth, and this can lead to dental issues.
- Sensitivity — Acidic foods, years of brushing, and grinding your teeth can all erode your tooth enamel. This can cause sensitivity issues.
- Tooth damage — Normal wear and tear can cause tooth cracks that allow bacteria to enter the area. This often causes pain or sensitivity, as well as tooth decay.
- Tooth loss — When you get older, you may have to deal with tooth loss, and gaps in your smile can cause your other teeth to shift, make it difficult to speak properly, and keep you from eating your favorite foods.
- Oral cancer — The older you get, the more your risk of oral cancer increases, especially if you smoke. Regular screenings are essential.
- Bad breath — Both dry mouth and untreated gum disease can lead to chronic bad breath, a sign you shouldn’t ignore.
Oral Health Questions in Indianapolis, IN?
To learn more about maintaining healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime, please get in touch with our experienced dental team! At Southeast Family Dental, our goal is to help you and your family achieve the best oral health possible.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, feel free to call us at (317) 359-8000.