Here’s a slightly rhetorical question from the team at The Dental Design Center in White Plains: how do you think Americans in the 65+ age bracket are doing, when it comes to dental health?
It’s one of those good news/bad news answers.
The Good News:
The rate of tooth decay in that group has decreased in the past thirty years.
The Bad News:
- 25% of persons age 65+ have no remaining teeth
- Nearly 20% have untreated cavities
- 10% of adults 65 and over have moderate to severe periodontal disease.
- There is evidence to suggest that advanced gum disease is linked to diabetes, heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease
- Most older Americans don’t have dental insurance
Clearly, there is room for improvement. What essential conditions will improve the oral health of age 65+ Americans? The National Institutes of Health cite three required components:
- Improved oral health education for the elderly
- Seniors practicing effective daily oral hygiene
- Increased access to dental care
At The Dental Design Center in White Plains, we are dedicated to providing all of our patients with comprehensive oral health education and attentive care. We have a full range of general and cosmetic dentistry services. Schedule an appointment with us today.
Contact The Dental Design Center – Ira J. Handschuh, D.D.S.:
914-683-5898
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
280 Dobbs Ferry Rd Ste 104
White Plains, New York
10607
