ANTIAGING TREATMENTS: DENTAL
During our life, we expose our teeth to almost constant
wear and tear resulting in:
These factors combined with plaque associated decay
and dry mouth syndrome all
contribute to the degeneration and destruction of our
teeth as we age.
Dental Retention with Age
Only a couple of generations ago, one would expect
to lose their natural teeth during their mid to late
years.
However, over the past several decades, the percentage
of older adults who have retained their natural teeth
has increased steadily. This trend is expected to continue,
resulting in improved oral function and quality of life.
In 2002 among adults aged over 65 years, [CDC analyzed
data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
(BRFSS) survey more than half of older adults reported
having most (i.e., losing five or fewer) of their natural
teeth. With tooth retention, older adults remain at
risk for dental caries and periodontal disease.
Dental Behavioural Factors
Dental healthy behaviours such as: use of fluoride,
regular examinations and clinical services, and increased
research into preventing oral diseases and promoting
oral health among adults will hopefully continue this
trend.
One notable result of the survey was the retention by
older adults who:
- smoked every day (31%)
- smoked some days (33%)
- had quit smoking (47%)
- had never smoked (59%)
Interestingly, a recent survey showed that whilst 80%
of Americans aged 18-49 want whiter teeth, with women
leading in this area at 85%, these same people are NOT
willing to give up their tooth staining items like coffee,
soda and cigarettes.
Bruxing is also a common
behaviour of clenching and grinding resulting in many
destructive and phantom symptoms.
General Health Factors
Those in fair to poor general health had a retention
rate of only 38%; whereas those with good to excellent
general health status (56%).
Diabetes is another contributing factor with retention:
- among persons with diabetes (42%)
- those without diabetes (53%),
More On Tooth Aging
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