Dental Care for Seniors: Meeting the Needs of Seniors
Dr. Louis J. Buono always strives to help his patients achieve their dental health goals, which makes him one of the leading dentists on Long Island. He offers excellent cosmetic and restorative dentistry treatments that enhance the teeth, gums, and entire mouth.
With advanced age, there are numerous dental health challenges that need to be considered. Gradual wear and tear on the teeth, gums, and jaw joint can lead to serious problems. Thankfully there are plenty of restorative and general dental care options to address these matters for elderly patients.
Treatments for Tooth Loss
With advanced age, it's not uncommon for someone to be missing a tooth or multiple teeth. This may be the result of long-term wear and tear or other factors. In terms of treating tooth loss, the best options tend to be dental bridges or dentures. These may be removable appliances or appliances supported by dental implants.
Treatments for Major Tooth Decay and Damage
As you get older, it's likely that you will face more issues with tooth decay and serious damage to the teeth. When this occurs, dental restorations are required to improve a patient's bite strength and prevent a potential root canal infection. Common restorations include dental fillings, inlays, onlays, and dental crowns.
Treatments for Periodontal Disease and Gum Recession
The health of your gums can be adversely affected by the aging process and by environmental factors. This can mean issues with periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis) as well as gum recession. There are a whole host of treatments to bring gum disease under control, as well as various options for soft tissue augmentation that are ideal for rebuilding lost gum tissue.
Treatments for TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders refer to the dysfunctions of the jaw joint that result in clicking, popping, locking, and grinding. In some cases this is the result of tooth grinding, in other cases it means dental misalignments that cause strain on the jaw over a long period time, and in others still the TMJ disorder is the result of arthritis. There are numerous approaches to treating TMJ disorders that are minimally invasive and more advanced. The ideal solution will involve determining exact cause of the TMJ disorder and properly treating it.
Solutions for Dry Mouth
Saliva production goes down as you get older, which is just part of the aging process. And yet on the other hand, the lack of saliva in the mouth could also be the first signs of a serious systemic condition of some kind, such as oral cancer. To treat everyday dry mouth, we can suggest various artificial saliva products. We will also note other potential causes that may be far more serious.
Screenings for Oral Cancers and Other Pathologies
On the note of oral cancer, we are also very mindful of potential warning signs of a serious oral pathology. That's why part of dental care for advanced age involves cancer screenings and tests that will help determine if a growth is a potential cancer sign. Catching cancer and treating it as soon as possible is always ideal.
A Focus on Comprehensive General Dentistry
The basics are always important when it comes to good dental health, which is why general dental care services are always part of senior dental care. Cleanings, checkups, and a chance to discuss your dental health concerns in person can go a long way to getting a healthy and beautiful smile.
Learn More About Dental Care for Seniors
For more information about your options for advanced dental care treatment, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. Louis J. Buono and the team at the practice look forward to your visit and helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
