Cavities in Adults

When we think of cavities, we often think of dental educational materials aimed at children. This makes sense since children are the demographic most likely to suffer from cavities (which scientific literature usually refers to as “caries” or dental lesions). However, the second-most likely demographic to get cavities is seniors, which is why the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group wants adult patients to be aware of this issue.

According to information from the Centers for Disease Control in 2011, about one in five American adults had untreated tooth decay. Doctors debate why exactly cavities become more common in patients who had maintained good oral hygiene in middle age. It could be due to changes in diet, worsening dexterity, or loss of access to dental care. Other compounding issues are medication side effects, such as dry mouth, which reduce the body’s ability to fight off oral infections. Part of it could also be generational: people who are in the older age bracket now may not have had fluoridated water when their teeth were emerging, putting them more at risk when their oral care is compromised.

Regardless, it is especially important for seniors to maintain good oral hygiene. Toothpaste with extra fluoridation can be a big help to them, as can dental sealants, which reduce the area in which food debris can get trapped and become fuel for bacteria growth.

Frederick Shaw, DDS, operates the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at 1500 W 38^th Street, Suite 34, Austin, Texas, 78731. To schedule an appointment, call 512-451-7491 or visit FrederickShawDDS.com and fill out a contact form.