Aging and Dental Health

As you grow older, your mind may be preoccupied with the health of your bones, heart, or brain. However, our team at Michael Maser will tell you that keeping your teeth healthy is an equally important part of the aging process. Older adults are at increased risk for a variety of oral health conditions, which makes it essential for you to speak with your dentist to create a prevention plan that’s best for you.

Oral health conditions associated with aging

Just as the rest of your body continues to change as you age, your mouth changes, too. Certain conditions become more likely to develop as you reach older adulthood, including:

  • Dry mouth. Although your salivary glands continue to produce saliva as you get older, medications and chronic health problems often cause dry mouth.
  • Root decay. Your teeth have lasted you a lifetime, but improper nutrition or cleaning may lead to decay at the roots of your teeth.
  • Diminished sense of taste. Your eyesight and hearing aren’t the only senses affected by aging. The ability to taste naturally diminishes over the course of older adulthood.
  • Tissue inflammation. Are your gums tender, bleeding, or inflamed? Tissue inflammation may indicate gum disease or may be a consequence of wearing dentures that don’t fit well.
  • Oral cancer. Risk for most cancers increases with age, and oral cancer is no exception. Older adults are at increased risk for oral cancer compared to younger individuals.

Ways you can prevent dental problems

Fortunately, many age-related oral health problems are preventable. Begin by improving your diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Choosing water over coffee or soda will keep your teeth whiter and cavity-free. Also remember to practice good brushing habits to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is vitally important when you reach older adulthood. Your dentist is familiar with your oral health and may be the first person to notice a sore, discolored patch, inflammation, or other abnormality that indicates oral cancer or gum disease.

If you’re experiencing any problems with dental health, let your dentist know immediately. Together, you can troubleshoot solutions and create a plan that keeps your mouth and gums healthy.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with the doctor, please give us a call at our convenient Myrtle Beach, South Carolina office!

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

  • "This is the best dentist and dental office in the Grand Strand. They take extra care to not only keep you safe and comfortable but do a superb job in the cleaning of teeth and explaining what is happening in the exam. I truly recommend Dr. Maser and staff."
    Sandy D, Little River
  • "The staff is so friendly and knowledgeable. Kortni is very thorough and makes sure she explains everything she is doing. Dr. Maser is great!"
    Lauren B, Conway
  • "Very impressed with Courtney. She did a great job stepping in for Allison. Very comforting to know if Allison needs another day off, I will be in capable hands. You have a great team Dr. M !"
    Karl L, Myrtle Beach
  • "I'm so thankful to have my dental care and all of my family's dental care with Dr. Maser and his staff. I was really nervous about getting dental care and now that I've been blessed with Dr. Maser and his staff I feel good about going. If you are nervous about dental care and you want exceptional care with extra kindness you should definitely make an appointment to be seen here. They are the best."
    Ashley Gibbs, Myrtle Beach