Aging and Oral Health

Your mouth, teeth and gums go through many changes as you age.

Oral changes that happen with age

It is common for oral health to be affected by the aging process and health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Older people may also have physical or mental limitations that can affect their ability to clean teeth and maintain good oral health. As a result, an older person may be more likely to experience:

• Gum recession and bone loss around the teeth due to the inability to thoroughly brush and floss.
• Exposed root surfaces that make teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.
• Advanced gum disease, which may cause teeth to loosen and eventually need to be removed.
• Teeth that may become more dry and brittle, and more likely to crack or break.
• Tooth enamel that has been worn down over the years, making teeth more sensitive.
• Dry mouth and an increased risk of tooth decay as a side effect of some medications.
• Bone shrinkage under dentures from long-time wear.
• Teeth that appear to darken.

Age and cancers of the mouth and throat

As a person ages, they may experience a range of oral health problems that go beyond tooth decay and gum disease.

Oral cancer is more common in older individuals. The American Cancer Society estimated about 58,450 new cases of mouth and throat cancer in the U.S. in 2024, with an average age of 65. A dental exam includes cancer screenings, so making and keeping regular dental visits are as important as ever, even for a person with dentures.

What you can do

As you age, learn about age-related dental health changes you can expect and how to prepare for these changes.

• Be aware that a healthy diet and good oral hygiene can help to decrease the risk of tooth decay, bone loss and advanced gum disease.
• Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and drink plenty of fluoridated water.
• If dry mouth is a problem, talk to your dentist for suggestions to help increase saliva flow.
• Do not vape or use tobacco in any form.
• Tell your dentist about any health problems and medications you are taking. This helps your dentist plan for the best care if you need treatment.
• Ask your dentist or hygienist for tips if you are having difficulty brushing or flossing. They can provide information and options that may make it easier.
• See your dentist for regular exams and professional cleanings.
• Call your dentist if you have any of the following symptoms:
  • Pain, tenderness or numbness
  • Swelling, lump(s), thickening or a rough spot of gum tissue
  • Crust or small, eroded areas anywhere in or about the mouth or neck
  • White or red patches in the mouth or on the lips
  • A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
  • A change in the way the teeth fit together
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue

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Note: The information in this article is not meant to replace the advice of your dentist or another licensed healthcare professional. Talk to your dentist for any specific dental advice.

Sources: https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/aging-and-dental-health https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html