Health Article

Older Americans and Oral Health

According to the 2000 U.S. Census, nearly 35 million Americans are aged 65 years or older. By 2050, that number is expected to increase to 48 million. Most older adults need extra attention when it comes to maintaining good oral care.

Oral health in older Americans can be affected by the following:

• Limited income or lack of dental insurance. Medicaid funds some dental care for low-income or disabled elderly, but this varies from state to state. Medicare does not provide dental coverage.
• Disability or chronic illness
• Being homebound or living in an extended-care facility

Missing Teeth and Nutrition

• Those with poorly-fitting dentures or missing teeth often prefer soft, easily chewed foods and avoid fresh fruits and vegetables.

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease in Older Adults

• Older Americans continue to experience dental decay on the crowns of teeth and on tooth roots due to gum recession. In fact, older adults may have new tooth decay at higher rates than children.
• About 23% of 65- to 74-year-olds have severe gum disease, with men are more likely than women to have more severe disease.

The Effects of Medication

• Most older adults take prescription drugs – in fact, those in long-term care facilities take an average of 8 different medications per day. Many of these can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk for dental disease.

Other Illnesses can Impact Oral Health

• Neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's occur at larger numbers among the elderly and can have a negative effect on oral care.
• Some nerve conditions can cause facial pain that leads some to avoid brushing or flossing.
• Chewing and swallowing can be impaired with age or illness, and may lead to poor food choices that can damage teeth.

Source: Centers for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov

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