ODONTOGERIATRICS
Odontogeriatrics is the branch of Dental Medicine dedicated to the prevention and treatment of oral diseases of elderly.
With age, body undergoes several changes and mouth is no exception. These changes may occur on teeth, gums, saliva and/or bone, such as:
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Change in teeth color;
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Decreased amount of produced saliva, often enhanced by taking medications. Saliva is fundamental for the protection of the oral tissues, preventing teeth demineralization;
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Reduction of taste capacity, which may contribute to higher consumption of spices such as salt or sugar, worsening problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure;
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Thin and sensitive gums can lead to gingival retraction and/or mobility and teeth loss.
It is important to comunicate these changes to your dentist, as they can influence the treatments' options.