The Average Teeth Count for Older Adults
While an average of 20.7 teeth for adults over 65 might seem low, it represents a significant improvement in oral health trends over previous generations. The number of teeth a 70-year-old has can be anything from a full set of 28 (excluding wisdom teeth) to none at all. Studies show that factors like income, education, and access to dental care play a larger role than age alone in predicting tooth loss. However, certain physiological changes that come with age, alongside the accumulation of dental problems over time, do increase the likelihood of tooth loss.
Key Factors Contributing to Senior Tooth Loss
Several issues become more prevalent in older age, impacting dental health and potentially leading to fewer teeth. Understanding these factors is crucial for prevention and management.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in older adults. If left untreated, bacteria-filled plaque and tartar can cause chronic inflammation, leading to gums pulling away from the teeth. This process creates pockets that become infected, weakening the bone structure that supports the teeth and eventually causing them to loosen and fall out.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Reduced saliva production, a common side effect of many medications used to treat chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles. Without sufficient saliva, the protective barrier is lost, creating a more favorable environment for harmful bacteria.
Root Decay
As people age, gums can recede, exposing the softer root surface of the teeth. Unlike the enamel-protected crown of the tooth, the root is highly susceptible to decay. Combined with dry mouth, this can lead to rampant root cavities, often necessitating extraction.
Chronic Health Conditions
Systemic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease are closely linked with oral health. Inflammation from gum disease can affect blood sugar control in people with diabetes, while diabetes can make individuals more susceptible to oral infections. Maintaining good control of chronic diseases is vital for preserving oral health.
Cumulative Wear and Tear
A lifetime of chewing, grinding, and biting can gradually wear down tooth structure. While this is a natural process, it can be exacerbated by untreated issues like bruxism (teeth grinding) or poor bite alignment. This can lead to weakened teeth that are more prone to fracture and decay.
Restorative Options for Missing Teeth
For seniors who have lost teeth, several options are available to restore function and aesthetics. The best choice depends on overall health, jawbone density, and budget.
Dentures vs. Dental Implants
| Feature | Full Dentures (Removable) | Dental Implants (Permanent) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally more affordable upfront. | Higher initial cost, but potentially more cost-effective long-term. |
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive, no surgery required for placement (except for extractions). | Requires oral surgery for placement. |
| Stability | Can slip or shift while eating or speaking, may cause sore spots. | Fixed securely in place, functions and feels like natural teeth. |
| Longevity | Typically require replacement or relining every 5-7 years. | Can last a lifetime with proper care. |
| Bone Health | Does not prevent bone loss in the jaw. | Stimulates jawbone, preventing bone loss and facial sagging. |
| Eating Ability | May limit food choices due to reduced chewing efficiency. | Restores full chewing power, allowing for a wider variety of foods. |
Maintaining Oral Health as You Age
Preserving your natural teeth is the best long-term strategy for oral health. If teeth have been lost, proactive care is still necessary, even with restorations.
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Consider an electric toothbrush if dexterity is a concern.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque from between teeth where a brush can't reach. Floss holders or interdental brushes can help if traditional flossing is difficult.
- Regular Dental Checkups: See a dentist at least once a year, or more frequently as recommended. Regular visits help with early detection of problems like gum disease and oral cancer.
- Manage Dry Mouth: If you have chronic dry mouth, ask your dentist about saliva substitutes, prescription fluoride gels, and chewing sugarless gum with xylitol to stimulate saliva production.
- Clean Dentures Properly: Removable dentures must be cleaned daily to remove food and bacteria. Remove them overnight to give gums a rest.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Both increase the risk of oral cancers and gum disease.
Prevention and Outlook
Oral health is an integral part of overall health, and with modern dentistry, significant tooth loss is not an inevitable part of aging. By staying informed and proactive, seniors can significantly improve their quality of life. The trend is positive, with better oral hygiene and access to care resulting in people keeping more of their natural teeth for longer. Continued preventative care is the best investment in a healthy, confident smile.
For more detailed statistics on tooth loss in older adults, refer to the NIDCR Data on seniors.
