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Dental Care for Your Elderly Loved One Jefferson, GA
Older Couple

The Greatest Generation is fading out and the Baby Boomer generation is moving into their golden years. Some of these individuals are in living situations where they are receiving assistance with day-to-day activities. Some of these situations take care to ensure that their charges have health and dental needs met. Others may or may not. Dental care for the elderly is just as important as any other age.

Tooth Loss in the Elderly

Throughout an individual’s life, the main threat to tooth loss is dental decay that goes neglected. In the later stages of life, it is not decay that contributes most to tooth loss but rather, periodontal disease. In the elderly, the complications of advanced gum disease lead to bone loss, which in turn leads to instability of the teeth in their sockets. Eventually, they fall out.

According to some estimates, over a quarter of the senior population over age 64 have no remaining teeth. Those who are older, women and current smokers are among those who are more prone to have fewer teeth.

Consequences of Poor Oral Hygiene in the Elderly

Aging can also reduce the production of saliva, as can certain medications. Dry mouth exacerbates dental problems in that the bacteria normally washed away by moisture in the mouth accumulates, making teeth and gums more vulnerable to disease.

Edentulous patients – those who have no teeth at all – are more likely to experience chronic kidney disease. Too few teeth, or no teeth at all, make eating healthy foods difficult, if not impossible. Many assisted living establishments, but not all, will help manage the healthcare of their residents. Some residents may need assistance to maintain their oral health.

Preventing Tooth Loss

Many believe the myth that tooth loss is a normal part of aging. In actuality, it is gum disease that is the culprit. Brushing and flossing daily and keeping up with regular dental checkups can eliminate this problem. In recent years, tooth loss due to gum disease in the elderly has decreased somewhat; however, it is still an issue that needs attention.

Elderly individuals who are experiencing cognitive decline may be especially vulnerable to the ravages of gum disease. These individuals may have trouble remembering to practice good oral hygiene, or they may not be physically able to manage brushing and flossing of their teeth. In these situations, help is required to ensure their teeth and gums remain in a healthy state.

Jefferson Dental Care is committed to helping patients of all ages acquire and maintain optimal oral health. If you or your elderly loved one is in need of dental care, contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Posted on behalf of Jefferson Dental Care

Our Patient Reviews

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Kayla B.

The whole office staff is amazing! Super friendly and helpful. Dr. Gannon has always been very nice and does great work! My husband sees Dr. Vetter and has only good things to say as well. I highly recommend this office!

Karen W.

We have had great experiences with Dr Gannon and Dr Vetter and their entire staff. They make you feel at ease and therefore we don't dread going to the dentist anymore

Barbara S.

This office is wonderful, Dr. Gannon is amazing super nice and the staff are so sweet. Thank you all for a great experience

Mindi C.

I live and work in Habersham but I have used this group for 15 years. I will drive the distance to see them because they are the best !! See you in 12/15/14 Dr Vetter.

Malcolm W.

Great folks!!! All the folks there are special ... Gotta love that Doctor Vetter!!!

Lee L.

What a GREAT experience!!! Dr Vetter is AWESOME!!

Wanda B.

Dr. Paul gannon is the best...

Caroline W.

Very friendly staff, professional and knowledgeable.

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Contact Us

1689 Old Pendergrass Road Suite 310
Jefferson GA, 30549

Tel: (706) 367-0010

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Our office is open for normal business hours and we are following all ADA/CDC guidelines to ensure staff and patient safety.