Health

Oral Health is Key to Quality of Life — Learn Why

If you think regular dental check-ups are just for kids, you’re risking more than just a pretty smile — you’re also missing out on an important way to safeguard your overall health and ensure the best quality of life as you age. That’s because years of solid research has established a firm link between oral health and overall physical and emotional health. “We know that poor oral health is linked to several diseases and conditions, including pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and nutritional deficiencies,” explains UAB Assistant Professor of Dentistry Sonia K. Makhija, DDS, MPH. “However, a troubling finding is that 25% of adults over the age of 65 haven’t seen a dentist in the last five years. It’s important for older adults to know that good oral health is essential to maintaining physical health, quality of life, and even independence.”

Ways Oral Health Impacts Quality of Life

• Oral health affects nutrition. “Many older adults who have missing teeth or oral sensitivity avoid eating nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, and meats,” explains Dr. Makhija. “This can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies that can cause low energy and other types of health problems.”
• Dry mouth causes low appetite and underweight. “Up to 20% of older adults are affected by dry mouth, which can be caused by many common medications including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and antihistamines,” Dr. Makhija says. “Dry mouth often leads to decreased appetite and underweight in older adults.” She stresses that dry mouth can be easily improved with over-the-counter products containing xylitol that increase saliva production.
• Poor oral health can lead to serious diseases that often limit independence and lower quality of life. “Diabetics have an increased risk of developing periodontal disease,” explains Dr. Makhija. “Also, plaque in the mouth can lead to plaque in the blood vessels in the heart, which is the primary factor in the development of coronary artery disease.”
• The perception of poor oral health can lead to social and emotional problems. “Studies show that older adults who believe they have a poor oral health status often avoid social situations, which can lead to isolation and depression,” Dr. Makhija says. “For example, if you have difficulty chewing or you avoid laughing or smiling, you’re probably going to be uncomfortable in social settings. Yet, older adults who isolate themselves tend to be depressed and have more health problems than those who are socially engaged.”

Dr. Makhija says the central message for older adults is to see a dental professional at least once a year. “Even if you wear dentures, it’s vital to have regular dental check-ups to protect yourself against oral health problems that could seriously compromise your health, happiness, and independence.”