Elderly seniors have a host of issues to deal with, including the fact that they can’t brush their teeth like they used to, or floss due to arthritis or dementia, or whatever their health care concern is.  That lack of good oral hygiene combined with many who take a host of medications that cause dry mouth creates an epidemic of caries, and particularly root caries.

When the cavity starts destroying the root of the tooth next to the bone, it becomes a heroic endeavor to try to save or restore the tooth.  It also becomes quite expensive when you have to replace crowns or have to resort to root canals or implants.  Gum disease, lack of care, bone loss, and the inability to clean down the infected areas also make seniors more prone to tooth loss. Seniors are usually on a fixed budget which makes it hard to pay for the needed care. In addition, many seniors have diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and are prone to pulmonary infections such as pneumonia, and heart issues. The infection in the gums can complicate and worsen their entire health condition.

Keeping the mouth free of infection and healthy is one of the keys to preserving the oral health of this category of patients.  In addition, the best way to prevent root caries is with fluoride and the best time to apply the new varnishes we have is right after the dental cleaning.  It typically isn’t covered by insurance, but it can be so effective.  The prescription toothpaste we provide our patients, such as ClinPro 5000 and Prevident, allow the person to apply the fluoride at home on a daily basis, helping to prevent root cavities.  We also love the Carifree products, such as the treatment rinse and maintenance rinse, to bring the pH of the mouth back up out of the acid zone and kill some of these unhealthy bacteria.

Additionally, if the patient would avoid sucking on lozenges and drinking acidic beverages and such they can prevent a lot of these problems on their own.  Many of our elderly patients (including my own mother) benefit by coming in every three months for a cleaning to help debride the mouth of the unhealthy biofilm that causes dental problems.

In short, we have found that preventative in-office care can help seniors avoid losing their teeth and impact their ability to chew effectively. Also, many seniors go downhill after losing teeth. Preventative care can also be a lot cheaper in the long run, thus saving them a lot of money.

If you are a senior or know someone in your family who could benefit from a preventative care approach to dentistry, please give us a call at 360-256-1202.  We can do a lot to help keep your mouth healthy and avoid the epidemic of root caries and periodontal disease that we are seeing. At Two Rivers Dentistry, our dedicated dentist, Dr. Vaughn Teuscher and his team are happy to serve our senior patients in Vancouver, Washington.

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At Two Rivers Dentistry, we do everything possible to preserve and protect your tooth enamel.  Enamel erosion leads to the eventual loss of this important protective layer. Its deterioration exposes the inner yellow layer of dentin, leading to rapid erosion, wear, sensitivity, cavities, bacterial invasion, and the loss of tooth structure–among other complications.  If damaged, you’ll need your dentist’s help to repair it so it doesn’t wear away more.

The proliferation of acidic beverages is a major culprit in the loss of tooth enamel today.  Because many of our most popular drinks are so acidic, most patients who consume acidic beverages on a regular basis will experience the dissolution of the enamel layer in a fairly short amount of time. In moderation, however, and with a vigilant home care routine, they may be fine–it is the frequency and quantity of consumption that becomes critical in dental care

It is relatively common for people today to think that because a beverage claims to have no sugar, it will not cause long-term damage. Yet, even flavored sparkling waters can cause tremendous damage. Within twenty minutes of consumption, studies have shown that bacteria already present on your teeth produce acid from the byproducts of the carbonated water. For comparison purposes a handy chart may be of benefit

The more we consume acidic beverages, the more prone we are to acid erosion. Those hoping to avoid yellow teeth, tooth sensitivity, cavities, extensive wear, and other painful or embarrassing outcomes should educate themselves on the effects of acidic beverages.  Those with sensitive teeth experience acute pain when they drink or bite into hot, cold sweet, acidic or spicy foods and drinks, and consequently, enamel erosion can have harmful effects on their long term diet. Acidic citrus juices are indeed packed with the ever-helpful Vitamin C, but one must exercise caution and moderation. Their PH levels–especially lemon and lime juice–rival the acidity of stomach and battery acid.

So, how can we protect our teeth and keep our enamel safe? First, reduce any frequent, repeated intake of acidic beverages, replacing them with water, milk, or a milk-substitute. Second, drink acidic beverages with food rather than sipping them between mealtimes.  If at all possible, after your meal rinse with water to further dilute any remaining acid in your mouth. Wait at least thirty minutes to brush your teeth after mealtime as toothpaste can damage newly sensitive areas. Baking soda or rinses we carry at our practice (like Cari-free CTX Maintenance) can bring your mouth’s PH back up to healthy levels after drinking highly acidic beverages. If you are concerned about your enamel and experience any problems stemming from the consumption of acidic beverages, call or visit your dentist right away.

The post DO YOU KNOW THE DANGERS OF ACIDIC DRINKS? first appeared on Two Rivers Dentistry.