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Tooth Loss Puts Older Adults at Risk for Malnutrition

Michael Wahl • Aug 13, 2019

As you transition into your golden years, you should be aware that your oral health needs will change. In addition to your oral health needs changing, you may need to consider how your oral health is impacting other areas of your health as well. Last year a small study released by Rutgers University suggests that older adults with tooth loss have an increased risk for malnutrition. Let’s dig into this study a bit and consider what you need to keep in mind as you age.

The Study

Rutgers University published this study  which analyzed the health records of 107 community-dwelling senior citizens. They found that more than 25% of patients were either malnourished, or at risk for malnourishment. Patients with 10-19 teeth were most likely to be at risk for malnutrition. Compared to patients with normal nutrition status, patients classified as malnourished also showed several knock-on effects such as weight loss, depression, dementia, and severe illnesses. This study confirms the finding of a larger similar study done on patients with chronic kidney disease.

The Implications

It’s not surprising to consider that those patients who have begun to lose a significant portion of their teeth struggle with malnutrition. The author of the Rutgers Study, Rena Zelig says, “If [the mouth’s] integrity is impaired, the functional ability of an individual to consume an adequate diet may be adversely impacted.” Additionally, you may get infections or tenderness as food gets trapped in tooth gaps. Difficulty chewing may encourage older patients to give up eating before they are truly filled. This is especially true if there are any other complicating factors such as muscle weakness, tremors, and difficulty seeing clearly.

How to Compensate

Older adults should do their best to keep up with tooth loss. You should take regular preventative measures to keep your mouth healthy. Even in your golden years you should keep a regular cleaning schedule. You may even consider increasing the frequency of appointments if you struggle with infections, gum disease, or lack sufficient strength and dexterity to brush well daily.

Additionally, replace your natural teeth whenever possible with implants and crowns when you lose teeth or your dentist extracts them. You can preserve your chewing surface, protect your jaw bone from bone loss, and prevent food and bacteria from building up. If implants are not a good solution for you, you can also consider partial or full dentures.

 

If you’re looking for a dentist that has extensive knowledge and experience with senior citizens, visit us at West One Family Dental. Our office specializes in dentures and oral health for seniors. Call us at 719-633-8766 to make an appointment today! We can’t wait to meet you.

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