A Lifetime of Smiles: Navigating the New Reality of Dental Care in Later Life
- brightsmilespro
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
It’s a wonderful achievement of our modern health and hygiene practices that more people are keeping their natural teeth well into their senior years. Five decades ago, it was common for older adults to rely on dentures, but today, research conducted by the university of Adelaide’s Centre for Population Oral Health shows complete tooth loss amongst Australians aged 65 to 74 has been reduced by over 74% [1]. What we’re seeing is the first generation of people, our parents' generation, keeping their teeth into their elderly years. This is something to be celebrated as a testament to more effective care and dental knowledge which have developed over the years.
But this new revelation also brings with it a unique set of challenges for our loved ones. Just as other aspects of health require more attention with age, so too does dental care. Decades old dental work begins to break, and harmful infections set in as oral hygiene deteriorates, putting teeth and more importantly health of our parents at risk.
The Hidden Hurdles to a Healthy Mouth
As we help care for our parents, it’s easy to focus on the most visible health needs. A decline in oral health, however, often happens quietly and out of typical sight. It’s not one single event, but a slow progression that can be difficult to notice.
Several factors unique to ageing can make dental care more complex:
Medications and Dry Mouth: Many common medications for conditions like high blood pressure or arthritis can cause reduced saliva output, drying out the patients mouths. This isn't just a matter of comfort; saliva is the mouth’s natural defence against decay. Without it, the risk of cavities and gum disease increases dramatically.
Changes in Dexterity: Arthritis, tremors, or a loss of strength can turn a seemingly simple daily routine, like holding a toothbrush or flossing, into an arduous chore, leading to neglect.
Accessibility and Transportation: Limited transportation capacity along with a reduction in personal mobility, create massive barriers for access to dental services for older Australians.
The realities of aging present with them the biggest obstacles to dental wellbeing leaving many without the ability or confidence to raise their situation. The result can be a slow retreat from once simple joys, perhaps turning down a favourite meal because it’s difficult to chew, or shying away from conversation due to oral discomfort or self-consciousness.
It’s About More Than Just Teeth
Ensuring a parent is comfortable and healthy is always the top priority for a family. What we’re now learning is just how connected oral health is to overall health. Countless studies have identified the positive general health benefits seen amongst older people who retain their natural teeth, including improved nutrition as well as reduced likelihood of cognitive decline and chronic disease.
A healthy mouth is fundamental to our and their wellbeing, allowing for better nutrition as they can continue to eat a variety of healthy foods. Prevention of chronic pain that can impact their mood and daily life. And support for their social wellbeing and sense of self, allowing them to connect with friends and family without hesitation.
Gentle, Dignified Care That Comes to Them
We believe that maintaining dental health shouldn’t be a source of stress for your family or your parent. The logistical challenge of travelling to a dental clinic can be a major barrier for many older adults which is why we provide our gentle, personalised dental services directly in the comfort of one's home or aged care facility.
Through providing care in a familiar and comfortable environment, we remove the anxiety and stress of an outside appointment. Our goal is to work with your loved ones, crafting their dental health journey, offering compassionate care that helps them feel comfortable and like themselves again, restoring their quality of life and giving them the confidence to share their smile freely.
A lifetime of smiles is a precious gift. With a little extra support and understanding, we can not only help our parents protect theirs but have pride in it as well, ensuring their later years are filled with health, comfort, and dignity.
