Tooth loss in the elderly: 4 of the most common causes

Your teeth can fall out more easily as you get older if you smoke and don't practice good dental hygiene. However, there are several other causes which in fact can also increase the risk of the elderly experiencing tooth loss. Anything?

Why are elderly people prone to having toothless teeth?

1. Gum disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is one of the main causes of tooth loss in elderly people. Periodontitis is a serious gum infection caused by a buildup of plaque, which is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms between the teeth. This severe infection then damages the tissue and bone in the gums.

Besides being able to cause teeth to fall out, bacteria in the gum tissue can also enter the bloodstream and attack other organs, such as the lungs and heart. This condition should not be taken lightly and must be treated immediately.

2. Trauma

Trauma from a hard impact or blow hitting the area of ​​the mouth can cause teeth to fall out. Although the impact does not immediately cause the tooth to fall out, it can cause serious tooth decay, which can eventually result in tooth loss or need to be removed.

Trauma is often caused by accidents. However, dental trauma can also be triggered from daily habits, such as opening bottle caps or plastic packaging using teeth, biting the tip of a pencil, chewing ice cubes, or frequently using toothpicks.

3. The habit of grinding teeth

Some people may unconsciously clench their jaw tightly and grind their teeth at the same time when they are stressed or anxious. In medical terms, this habit is called bruxism. If done continuously, bruxism can cause the molars to wear out, thereby loosening the tooth from the gum pocket and the supporting bones being crushed.

The effect is not only that older teeth fall out easily, it also increases your risk of developing TMJ syndrome. TMJ syndrome is a jaw joint disorder that causes excruciating pain, which can radiate to the face and ears.

4. Certain medical conditions

Certain medical conditions actually contribute to tooth loss in old age. Medical conditions that can increase the risk of tooth loss include diabetes, osteomyelitis, high blood pressure, rheumatism, and autoimmune diseases.

According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing periodontitis. This is because diabetes affects your ability to fight bacteria that can cause gum infections. Gum disease can also affect blood sugar control in the body.

Tips for caring for teeth in old age so that they do not become toothless

Routine brushing and flossing teeth is an important key to maintaining oral and dental health. In the elderly, plaque can form quickly on the teeth, especially if you do not maintain good oral hygiene. This can not only increase the risk of tooth decay, but can also lead to gum disease which in turn can cause older teeth to fall out easily.

To maintain good oral health, it is important for everyone - regardless of age - to:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day (when you wake up in the morning and before going to bed) with toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Don't brush your teeth too hard. This can not only cause the gums to tear, but also erode the relatively thin tooth enamel. As a result, your teeth become more sensitive.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day.
• Avoid consuming sugary foods. There is no need to stop consuming sugar altogether to maintain healthy teeth and mouth. You only need to limit their consumption.
• Gargle with mouthwash containing an antiseptic once or twice a day. According to the American Dental Association, the use of mouthwash that contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties can reduce the bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease.
• Routine consultations to the dentist at least every 6 months to perform dental cleaning and check teeth as a whole.