Burning mouth and seniors Burning mouth usually occurs in individuals
over 50, but can affect others as well. There are several
reasons why it occurs.Ê
Denture problems: a new denture, or one that doesn't
fit well, can irritate your entire mouth.
Reduced salivary gland function: this will cause the
mouth to become dry, inviting oral discomfort, difficulty
eating or swallowing, loss of taste, and a burning mouth.
Salivary gland dysfunction sometimes comes with age.
But there are saliva substitutes and rinses to protect
your oral tissues, and soothe burning sensations.
Medications: these often dry the mouth (side effects)
Vitamin deficiency: there is some evidence linking burning
mouth syndrome to Vitamin B deficiency.
Candida infections: this is a common oral fungus, usually
apparent to the eye but sometimes undetectable. A topical
anti-fungal agent can be prescribed.
Cancer treatment related
complications in the mouth Each year about 400,000 people with
cancer develop treatment-related complications in the
mouth ranging from lesions to chronic dry mouth to bone
disintegration. If serious, these complications can
be life threatening. While many are unavoidable, some
can be prevented or minimized.
It is recommended that whenever possible, a pre-therapy
dental evaluation with a full set of mouth x-rays be
performed. Any decay, gum disease and abscesses should
be treated, if time permits, prior to chemotherapy and/or
radiation therapy.
Even patients who have no pain or dental disorders need
a thorough cleaning. The goal should be to have the
patient's mouth in optimal health prior to beginning
anti-cancer therapy. I
f you have questions regarding cancer treatment and
your dental health, please call ourÊoffice.
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Denture Problems Many denture wearers breathe a sigh
of relief when they get their first pair of dentures
because they think their dental problems are over. What
they soon realize, however, is that have just traded
some old problems for new ones.Ê
Even the best dentures can't compete with natural teeth
in ability to chew food efficiently and comfortably.
As the years go by, the supporting ridges that remain
after teeth have been removed gradually change and get
smaller.Ê
For most patients, the dentures need to be "relined"
or "refitted" every 2-4 years so that the denture will
conform to the changing ridge. A large change in weight
can also alter the shape of the mouth, causing changes
in the fit.
If you have questions about your dentures, please call
our office.
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to top Lost teeth impact total oral
health for seniors The good habits of effective daily
brushing, diet, and use of fluoride will help the aging
person adapt to changing conditions. Reduced salivary
flow and addition of medications will affect oral health
dramatically.
Changes of the teeth and gums: Teeth will darken because
of long-term exposure to plaque and changes in the dentin
within the tooth. The gums may recede and uncover the
roots. Exposed roots will be darker than the enamel
part of the tooth and are prone to decay. Fillings can
decay and darken, too, as they weaken over time.
"Dry Mouth" may develop: Saliva is useful to lubricate,
wash away plaque, and neutralize the acid produced by
plaque. Flow of saliva can be reduced by a medical disorder
or be a side effect of antihistamine, decongestants,
pain killers or diuretics.
The build-up of plaque will accelerate tooth decay.
There will also be more gum infection which will cause
a loss of bone support for the teeth. Poorly-fitting
or poorly-cleaned dentures, illness, and some medications
increase the severity of the problem.
For more information regarding dental problems of the
elderly, please call our office.
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to top Missing teeth and dental
implants "Well, you know Doc, it's just a
back tooth. No one will see it so I'll just get rid
of it. It's not going to make a difference."
The plain truth is that it will make a difference. The
loss of just a single tooth can set a course that can
destroy an entire mouth. "Well, if that's true, tell
me more. I sure don't want to lose the front ones that
I smile with."
Teeth will drift and tip into a space that is created
by missing teeth. Just like two gears of a car that
are not properly aligned, pretty soon you've got a whole
lot of problems. "
Well, I don't like that. What can I do?" If it sounds
like I've heard this conversation a few times, you're
right. If I'm going to keep a patient happy, I need
to provide options at this point.
One of the options would be an implant. This is the
replacement of a tooth with a false root that is surgically
placed. It is then followed by the careful construction
of a crown to replace the missing tooth, to prevent
teeth from shifting and thereby causing further tooth
loss.
If you have any questions about missing teeth and possible
implant treatment, please call our office.
