Problems with your teeth affect more than just your oral health. For instance, periodontal disease can lead to physical issues like diabetes or heart disease. This is especially problematic for older adults. The dental practice of Brian S. Kubo, DDS, provides quality comprehensive and cosmetic dentistry services to patients in the Kamuela, HI, community. If you’re an older adult or have a senior loved one in your life, this dentist explains the importance of proper dental care for maintaining good overall health.

Older adults often lose dental coverage due to retirement or receive reduced coverage with exorbitant costs. This can discourage them from visiting their dentist when they have dental problems or even going for regular checkups. Seniors who don’t receive proper dental care are at risk of developing certain health issues and experiencing a decrease in their physical and mental abilities.

Here are just some of the health issues the elderly face if they don’t receive adequate dental care:

• Gum Disease: Financial and physical limitations often make it difficult for older adults to get the proper nutrition they need. Combining poor diet with a lack of proper dental care can lead to infected gum tissue and the start of periodontal disease. If your older loved one does not receive treatment from a dentist, they can lose their teeth.
• Diabetes: Gum disease prevents the body from using insulin properly, causing high levels of glucose to develop. If your senior adult’s body is unable to manage these increased levels, it can result in diabetes.
• Heart Disease: The same bacteria that causes periodontal disease also has a part in causing strokes. Your gums are filled with blood vessels, and if your gum tissue is damaged, it allows the bacteria from an infection to easily enter your bloodstream and head toward your heart.
• Pneumonia: When senior adults develop gum disease, they’re at risk of breathing in droplets containing bacteria from their mouth to their lungs. This bacteria can cause respiratory infections and possibly pneumonia.
• Tooth Loss: Periodontal disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, breaking down the connective tissue keeping the teeth in place. Tooth loss, in turn, makes the remaining teeth shift, creating an uneven jaw bone. This can vastly change the appearance and ability to chew of older adults.

Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups, as well as proper brushing and flossing, will help older adults maintain good oral and physical health. Brian S. Kubo DDS has over 20 years of experience performing dental cleanings, root canals, teeth whitening, and preventative dental care. Call (808) 885-8465 or contact them online to make an appointment for you or a senior loved one.