Tips for common dental problems

AgedCarer asked Dr Peter King about common dental problems and how they can be avoided.

In this article:

• What are some common problems of ageing teeth and how can they be avoided?
  
• What effect do medications have on the teeth?
  
• What signs may indicate a problem with the teeth or gums? 
  
• What causes dry mouth and how does it affect oral health?
  
• What are the benefits of using fluoride or antimicrobial gels and mouth rinses ? 
  
• I'm taking my mum who has dementia to the dentist, is there anything I can do to ensure the visit goes smoothly?

 
What are some common problems of ageing teeth and how can they be avoided?

Tooth decay, particularly in the roots of teeth is a common problem in ageing teeth. The roots of the teeth are softer than the crowns and decay more easily. The roots become exposed increasing the risk of decay.

Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis occur in the elderly and can be controlled by thorough brushing of the teeth. Products that contains chlorhexidine will also help fight gum disease. Ask your pharmacist which mouth rinses have chlorhexidine in them.

Use a high fluoride toothpaste that can only be purchased from the pharmacist – the one that has 5000 parts per million fluoride.

  
What effect do medications have on the teeth?

Many medications cause dry mouth. Without good saliva flow, you can’t wash away the acids that are produced in your mouth whenever you eat something that is sweet or starchy. The acid eats away your tooth. That is what tooth decay is all about.

The pharmacy has saliva substitutes and drinking more water throughout the day will help. Chewing sugarless gum is also useful. 

What signs may indicate a problem with the teeth or gums? How do I recognise infection?

Bleeding on brushing is the sure sign. Any swelling indicates infection. 

What causes dry mouth and how does it affect oral health?

Medications, excessive use of caffeinated beverages, diabetes and some diseases such as sjrogrens syndrome cause dry mouth. That will increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. 

What are the benefits of using fluoride or antimicrobial gels and mouth rinses ? What is the most effective way to use these products?

Fluoride is the most important preventive chemical. Use a high fluoride toothpaste twice daily. Mouth rinses can be used as well but the toothpaste is the most important. When you brush, spit out the toothpaste but don’t rinse it all out – leave a smear of toothpaste in the mouth – it will help prevent tooth decay. 

I'm taking my mum who has dementia to the dentist, is there anything I can do to ensure the visit goes smoothly?

Take a medical history and list of medications. Consider some sedation prescribed by the doctor if she is anxious, make a morning appointment rather than afternoon, she will be more fresh for the experience.

Choose a dentist that has experience with elderly patients with dementia if possible. Clean her teeth before the appointment – don't let her eat after cleaning her teeth. Food in the mouth obscures the teeth for an examination. 

Article by
AgedCarer contributor
Dr Peter King BDS MDS FICD
Special Needs Dentist