Did you know that about 2 in 3 adults aged 65 or older have gum disease? That’s roughly 68 percent! Though this may come as a surprise to you, your dentist is probably aware that older adults are prone to gingivitis. If left untreated, the infection can enter your bloodstream and impact other parts of your body, like your heart health. It’s important, therefore, to know what causes gum disease in older adults so you can avoid it. Keep reading to learn 4 common causes behind unhealthy gums.
Cause #1: Prescription Medications
Some prescription drugs, like heart medications and anti-depressants, can give you dry mouth. That’s bad news for your gums! Saliva is our body’s natural defense against unhealthy bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. If your mouth is frequently dry, those microbes can flourish and damage your dental health.
Cause #2: Systemic Disorders
Many adults in their later years develop conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. These are known to interrupt your body’s inflammatory responses, which means it’s not able to fight infection like it once was. Without strong defenses in place, gum disease can more easily take root and spread.
Cause #3: Poor Nutrition
Whether it’s due to a lack of appetite later in life, tooth loss, or some other reason, many adults aren’t getting enough vitamin C. This nutrient is essential in keeping your gums healthy and strong so they can keep your teeth in place. If you’re experiencing a deficiency, you’re more likely to develop issues like bleeding gums or different forms of disease. Your body doesn’t make this ingredient on its own, so it’s imperative that you get enough from your diet. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and some green vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, all have high levels of vitamin C.
Cause #4: Hormonal Imbalances
As we get older, our bodies naturally experience changes in hormone levels. This is especially true for women who have already gone through menopause. The changes to the hormone balances allow a particularly painful form of gum disease, called desquamative gingivitis, to develop.
Fortunately, gum disease can be prevented with a healthy dental hygiene routine. You should brush and floss your teeth at least twice every day. Also, be sure to visit your dentist once every 6 months for a checkup. They can catch any signs of gum disease so it can be addressed early on. That way you’re more likely to keep your mouth happy and healthy for years to come!
About the Practice
Our dedicated dental team at Nu Dental Brick can quickly identify signs of gum disease to develop a treatment plan that works for your unique circumstances. We have access to state-of-the-art technology, like soft-tissue lasers, to repair the damage if you’ve already experienced receding gums and need them recontoured. We’re also able to provide antibiotic and surgical remedies for different stages of gum disease. If you’re experiencing sore or bleeding gums, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (732) 475-7535.