Baby boomers, born between the years 1946 and 1964, are a generation of Americans who have grown up taking care of their teeth. Many have remained physically and socially active, and both the functionality and appearance of their teeth and gums remain vitally important. Despite this perceived importance, these physically and socially active seniors may be avoiding regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist for the same reason as younger patients – if plaque and tarter buildup or gingivitis has not resulted in physical discomfort or serious symptoms such as excessive bleeding of the gums, tooth movement or looseness, trips to the dentist are postponed, cancelled or avoided altogether. However, doing so can have serious consequences, especially for seniors. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, 63 percent of baby boomers may not be aware that problems with their teeth and gums may be linked to a wider and more serious problem with their overall health.
Three Stages of Periodontal Disease
There are three stages of periodontal disease (we went into more detail on these in our previous blog post). Stage one, gingivitis, occurs due to a buildup of hardened plaque or tarter on the teeth. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, the second stage of periodontal disease. Gums begin to pull away from the teeth, leading to infection and the formation of gum pockets, more severe infections and inflammation. The third and final stage of periodontal disease, advanced periodontitis, concludes with the breakdown of the bone and tissue holding teeth in place, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.
Dental Check-Ups Are Vitally Important
While the symptoms and consequences of advanced periodontal disease are painful and potentially expensive to treat, there is another, even more important reason for baby boomers and seniors to get regular dental checkups and cleanings. Many of the symptoms and root causes of periodontal disease, including swollen and bleeding gums, bad breath and excessive dry mouth, can also be manifestations of systematic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and various forms of cancer.
If your dentist can diagnose a problem with your teeth or gums in a timely manner, they may be able to determine that there is something wrong with your overall health, helping you and your doctor diagnose and treat potentially life-threatening or life-altering diseases and conditions in their earliest stages.
For over 30 years, Dr. Lee Weisbard, D.D.S., and her team have provided Colorado and beyond with the highest quality dental experience available. And it all grew out of her compassion for others and a love for the dental arts.
She has the skills and committed excellence in cosmetic, general, and dental implant dentistry that brings you the best dental care in Greenwood Village, DTC, Englewood, Cherry Hills, Littleton, and the surrounding cities of Denver. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious 2018 Colorado Businesswoman of the Year award.