Facts about Adult Oral Health

The baby boomer generation is the first where the majority of people will keep their natural teeth over their entire lifetime. This is largely because of the benefits of water fluoridation and fluoride toothpaste. However, threats to oral health, including tooth loss, continue throughout life.

The major risks for tooth loss are tooth decay and gum disease that may increase with age because of problems with saliva production; receding gums that expose “softer” root surfaces to decay-causing bacteria; or difficulties flossing and brushing.

Although more adults are keeping their teeth, many continue to need treatment for dental problems. Oral health problems in adults include the following:

• Untreated tooth decay. More than 1 in 4 (26%) adults in the United States have untreated tooth decay.
• Gum disease. Nearly half (46%) of all adults aged 30 years or older show signs of gum disease; severe gum disease affects about 9% of adults.
• Tooth loss. Complete tooth loss among adults aged 65-74 years has steadily declined over time, but disparities exist among some population groups. If left untreated, cavities (tooth decay) and periodontal (gum) disease lead to tooth loss.
• Oral cancer. Oral cancers are most common in older adults, particularly in people older than 55 years who smoke and are heavy drinkers.
  • People treated for cancer who have chemotherapy may suffer from oral problems such as painful mouth ulcers, impaired taste, and dry mouth.
• Chronic diseases. Having a chronic disease, such as arthritis, heart disease or stroke, diabetes, emphysema, hepatitis C, a liver condition, or being obese may increase an individual’s risk of having missing teeth and poor oral health.
  • Patients with weakened immune systems, such as those infected with HIV and other medical conditions (organ transplants) and who use some medications (e.g., steroids) are at higher risk for some oral problems.
  • Chronic disabling diseases such as jaw joint diseases (TMD), autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s Syndrome, and osteoporosis affect millions of Americans and compromise oral health and functioning, more often among women.

At Eon Clinics, we specialize only in dental implant-based tooth restorations.  If you are in need of a single tooth restoration to full mouth rehabilitation come talk to us about how we can help you achieve the healthy, fully functional beautiful and permanent teeth of your dreams!  Eon Clinics has been helping people just like you restore compromised or missing teeth for over ten years in the Chicago area. 

Call us to set up your very informative – no-obligation consultation at 800-250-3500 or visit us on the web at eonclinics.com