7501 Mission Road, Suite N
Prairie Village, KS 62208
Free Initial
Consultation
2001 Frederick Ave
Saint Joseph, MO 64501
As you age and as your medical needs change, your dental treatment options may change as well.
Conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, can affect your tolerance for anesthetics and some
medications. To make sure the treatment choices are appropriate for you, always advise your dentist of your medical conditions. Certain changes to the teeth, gums, and salivary glands commonly occur. These include:
RECEDING GUM LINES
As a person ages, their gums may begin to recede, exposing roots to harmful plaque, which advances tooth decay.
With the passing of time, older fillings can degenerate, developing tiny cracks, where plaque that cannot be removed by
normal brushing and flossing, can flourish.
DRY MOUTH
Medical disorders, medications such as diuretics, decongestants, or painkillers, and the aging process itself contribute to the
decreased function of the salivary glands. Besides keeping the mouth moist, saliva also helps to keep teeth free from plaque. As the amount of saliva decreases, plaque can accumulate more readily.
GUM DISEASE
Poor dental hygiene and some medications can contribute to the gums separating from the teeth, which can create pockets for plaque to accumulate. This can further tooth decay. Resultant infections can damage and dissolve the bone supporting the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
WHAT ABOUT BRIDGES?
Unfortunately, tooth loss can occur with advancing age. Your dentist may recommend a bridge to replace missing
teeth. A bridge ensures that teeth remain correctly aligned, normal eating and chewing abilities are maintained, and
your smile is cosmetically pleasing.
TYPES OF BRIDGES:
FIXED -A Prosthetic (artificial) tooth, connected to two crowns that are cemented to teeth on either side of the gap.
RESIN BONDED - Often used on the front teeth. Consists of concealed "wings" that are cemented to both the artificial
and natural teeth.
CANTILEVER - Used when there are healthy teeth on only one side of a gap.
OTHER OPTIONS TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH INCLUDE:
• Implants - permanently installed artificial teeth, anchored in the jawbone.
• Full or partial dentures.
Senior Dental Services
