Various studies have found that as we age, we are less likely to visit the dentist, which has worrying long-term consequences. Many people neglect their oral health, without realising the impact it has on their physical health. Attending regular check-ups is crucial, and can help with early detection of problems. At Savanna Dental, we welcome patients of all ages, and provide ongoing support and a range of treatments for our patients.
As we age, our physical health typically declines, leading to numerous visits to the doctor, multiple medications being prescribed, and other ailments adding to our troubles. But one area that many people neglect as they get older is their oral health, which not only further affects their physical health, but it can also lead to oral pain that has long-term consequences. This is of course avoidable with regular visits to the dentist.
The evidence
A study published in the Journal of Research on Aging found that as patients get older, they become less likely to attend dental appointments [1]. These results were even more pronounced for ethnic minorities.
The study tracked how American adults aged 51 and over interacted with dental services. Almost 90% of those in the study were American citizens, with the remainder foreign-born nationals.
The study found that 70% of respondents visited a dentist at some point in the two years prior to the study, but for those over 80, the rate dropped significantly.
Moreover, the study determined that among immigrants and ethnic minorities, that the number of people who visit the dentist regularly is comparatively lower when compared to American nationals. Similar trends regarding access to dental services in relation to social class also appear to exist in Canada [2].
Why is this?
It is an interesting question – why is it that over 80’s and ethnic minorities are less likely to go to the dentist? The aforementioned study suggests that low awareness of the importance of oral health, lack of access to dental care, and having no insurance coverage are key factors.
It has been well documented how Medicare does not provide support for dental care (click here to read more) – which causes problems for many Canadians. Covid-19 has had a big impact on the finances of most Canadians, which has limited their access further to dental clinics.
Concern over costs have been longstanding around the world, with a study in 2008 finding that many elderly patients weighed up dental costs with functionality and social appearance. They also considered future living costs versus dental costs and finally, whether or not the dental work would be worthwhile in terms of how long they live [3].
As mentioned, ethnic minorities also appear to be less likely to visit the dentist. Similar factors to the above, along with other potential areas such as racial discrimination and language barriers, are likely to explain this.
The importance of maintaining healthy oral hygiene
Something that many people are unaware of is the link between oral health and overall physical health. Therefore, it is very important to attend regular dental check-ups. Gum disease, inflammation and even mouth cancer are just some of the possible complications arising from poor oral health.
A 2017 report published in the United Kingdom found that dental surgeons were becoming increasingly concerned about the impact that poor oral health was having on older people’s general health [4]. The report also confirmed that dental problems were linked to malnutrition and pneumonia in older people.
Perhaps even more worrying, the Harvard Medical School found in 2010 that the chance of having tooth damage severe enough to require a root canal or similarly invasive procedure triples once you’re over the age of 65 [5]. This emphasises the importance of looking after our mouth.
As we always say, early detection is crucial. We really can’t emphasise this enough! What may start out as a small cavity that can be filled easily, could, left untreated, become something more serious where evasive action may need to be taken in the future. So instead of a simple filling, a more complex procedure like a root canal or even an extraction may be needed.
What we can offer at Savanna Dental
Here at Savanna Dental, we welcome everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or nationality – we guarantee a welcoming and courteous patient experience. We know these are difficult times to visit the dentist, but we aim to provide a comfortable environment for our patients in a convenient location within Calgary.
We are also aware that finances can be an issue. But here at Savanna Dental, we set our prices in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures that our patients have access to affordable healthcare at a competitive price.
We offer many different treatments at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental. These treatments can be tailored to the varying needs of our patients. Regular check-ups are the best way to avoid problems, though when problems are identified, we have a range of treatments to restore positive oral health for our patients.
Summary
Looking after our oral health is crucial, especially as we get older; with the statistics above showing the potential problems facing the elderly. But by visiting the dentist regularly, we are able to detect problems early, and act appropriately.
As always, brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating a balanced and nutritious diet can all help. When you do need help, or want to schedule a check-up, we will be more than happy to assist, check out our website for more https://savannadentalclinic.ca!
- [1] Zhang, W., Wu, Y. Y., & Wu, B. (2019). Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Dental Service Utilization for Foreign-Born and U.S.-Born Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Research on Aging. 41 (9): p845-867.
- [2] Bedos, C., Brodeur, J-M., Boucheron, L., Richard, L., Benigeri, M., Olivier, M., & Haddad, S. (2003). The dental care pathway of welfare recipients in Quebec. Social Science & Medicine. 57 (11): p2089-2099.
- [3] Giddings, L., Mckenzie-Green, B., Buttle, L., & Tahana, K. (2008). Oral Healthcare for Older People: ‘i Can’t Afford Not to Go to the Dentist, but Can I Afford It?’. New Zealand Medical Journal. 121 (1281): p72-79.
- [4] Royal College of Surgeons: Faculty of Dental Surgery. (2017). Improving older people’s oral health. Available: https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/files/rcs/fds/media-gov/fds-improving-older-peoples-oral-health-2017.pdf. Last accessed: 23rd April 2021.
- [5] Harvard Medical School. (2010). The aging mouth – and how to keep it younger. Available: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-aging-mouth-and-how-to-keep-it-younger. Last accessed: 22nd April 2021.
