There is good news according to the December 2021 Oral Health in America report by the U.S. Surgeon General and National Institutes of Health (NIH), Many “baby boomers,” (those born from 1946 to 1964), will keep their teeth longer than any generation before. Further, among adults 65–74 years of age, just 13% have lost all their teeth, compared with 50% in the 1960s. However, meaningful oral health challenges remain. According to the same report:
97% of older adults have some form of tooth decay that requires treatment. And many disparities exist that result in decay for some to go untreated.
Four out of five older adults live with at least one chronic disease such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These diseases may have direct implications for the health of teeth and gums. Diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene or obtain regular dental care.
Nearly 1 in 5 adults report moderate to high dental fear or anxiety, preventing some from seeking needed oral health care, or result in cancelled or missed appointments for treatment.
Nearly 1 in 10 older adults suffer from severe gum disease (periodontitis). Older men, Hispanic and African American individuals, and those of lower incomes or who have fewer years of education are at increased risk for severe periodontitis.
Oral health care should be a “must” not an option for older adults.
The December 2021 Oral Health in America report noted that only 23 states in the country offer more than emergency or limited dental coverage for adults with Medicaid (HUSKY Health) – and the good news is Connecticut is one of them. Now it is your turn to make sure you are brushing and flossing regularly, and get routine dental assessments and cleanings.
*Source: 2021 Surgeon General’s report, Oral Health in America
