Geriatric Oral Health: Dr. Khanani’s Tips for Seniors in Holden

Aging brings along numerous changes, and your smile is no exception. Teeth, gums, and jaw joints withstand years of use, while the body’s natural healing mechanism slows down. For seniors, smiling health is not just about looks—it is crucial to comfort, diet, and overall well-being. Dr. Khanani believes that with the right maintenance, seniors can have healthy and happy smiles for decades.

Why Oral Health Becomes More Complex With Age

With age, enamel can become thin, gums can recede, and decades of dental work can require continuous maintenance. Medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or cardiovascular disease can also affect mouth health. Some prescription medications can cause dry mouth, which causes patients to be at increased risk for cavities and gum disease.

When you combine these conditions, you’ll understand why oral health requires more than brushing and flossing regularly. Routine visits to a dentist in Holden let problems be detected early, before they turn into something serious, long-term, and painful.

Common Dental Problems in Older Adults

The oral health problems of elderly people typically include:

• Tooth decay caused by exposed roots or low saliva production
• Gum disease is related to plaque build-up as well as overall health problems
• Loss of teeth causes difficulty in eating and speaking
• Weakened restorations requiring repair or replacement
• Risk of oral cancer rises with age

The best Holden dentist will create a care plan that considers such health risks and your overall medical history.

Preventive Measures

Dr. Khanani’s geriatric dental care is prevention-focused. The following are key steps to help maintain oral health with age:

• Regular Checkups with the Dentist – Six-month professional cleaning and exams will prevent minor issues from becoming larger issues.
• Daily Oral Hygiene Routine – Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing or interdental brushes, is non-negotiable.
• Dry Mouth Tips – Being hydrated (drink 12 to 16 cups of water) and using sugar-free gums can be helpful to improve the situation.
• Balanced Diet – Limiting sweet snacks and focusing on nutrient-rich foods preserves gum and tooth health.
• Oral Cancer Screening – Annual check-ups are especially important for elders, even without tobacco or alcohol use.

Restorative and Comfort-Focused Care

When preventive oral care fails to offer the desired outcome, restorative care can restore function and comfort. Modern dentistry offers options like crowns, bridges, dentures, and dental implants tailored to elderly patients. Comfort is always the priority—particularly for those with medical conditions or mobility impairment.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that poor oral health can impact nutrition, speech, and self-esteem in social settings. Gum disease has also been linked with heart disease and other chronic diseases. All these factors render regular dental care more than a cosmetic issue—it’s a part of overall health care.

A continuing relationship with your dentist in Holden can help guard your smile and future health.

Your teeth and gums deserve the same consideration as the rest of your body. Routine visits, good habits in your daily life, and a quick reaction to changes in your mouth can leave a lasting effect.

If it has been over six months since your last visit to the dentist, the time to do something is now. Make an appointment with Dr. Khanani to talk about your needs and develop a customized plan for a healthy,  confident smile.