Baby boomers prone to certain oral health issues
Although statistics have indicated that Canadians are living for longer and enjoying good dental health, certain oral health issues are rife amongst baby boomers.
Now, people are living for longer and advances in dentistry and oral hygiene products mean that people are keeping their own teeth for longer; however, people that were born after World War II are more likely to suffer from gum conditions. Studies have also indicated that people aged over 59 are more likely to suffer from cavities, dry mouth and sensitivity.
Now the impetus is on keeping teeth for as long as possible; in previous generations, if teeth were decayed or damaged, they were extracted. Dentists are now saying that older people have healthy teeth but unhealthy gums; dentists believe the majority of gum issues are caused by root cavities, which develop as a result of gum recession and overzealous brushing.
A report published by Canada’s Oral Health Journal has confirmed that baby boomers are suffering with root cavities that are made worse by other oral health issues including sensitivity and cavities. The study also confirmed a link between certain medications, including antidepressants and analgesics, and cavities; the study concluded that by 2012 a third of retired Canadians will require treatment for root cavities.
In order to tackle these problems, dentists recommend brushing the teeth with a soft brush, using specially formulated oral hygiene products, including toothpastes that are designed for sensitive teeth and Listerine Total Care mouthwash and eating healthily.
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