As we age, our oral health needs change, and seniors are more likely to face dental issues that may require oral surgery. From missing teeth and gum disease to bone loss and jaw-related problems, seniors often need specialized care to maintain their oral health and quality of life. At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery in El Paso, Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall are experts in providing personalized oral surgery solutions tailored to the unique needs of senior patients.
In this blog, we’ll explore common oral health challenges faced by seniors, why oral surgery is sometimes necessary, and how our team can help you enjoy better oral health at any age.
Aging naturally impacts oral health in several ways. Here are some of the most common issues that seniors face and why they may require surgical intervention:
Missing teeth are a widespread problem among older adults, and they can affect everything from your ability to chew to the appearance of your smile. Tooth loss can also lead to bone loss in the jaw, further complicating oral health.
While dentures and bridges offer temporary solutions, dental implants are a permanent way to replace missing teeth and restore function. Implants not only look and feel like natural teeth but also help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
As we age, bone density decreases, and in the jaw, this process can accelerate if teeth are missing. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the underlying jawbone begins to deteriorate because it no longer receives the stimulation it needs to maintain its strength and structure.
For seniors with significant bone loss, bone grafting may be required before dental implants can be placed. This surgical procedure restores the lost bone, providing a strong foundation for future dental work.
Gum disease is another common problem for seniors. Periodontitis can cause gums to recede, leading to tooth loss and even bone damage. In severe cases, gum disease may require surgical intervention, such as gum grafting or flap surgery, to remove infected tissue and promote healing.
Oral cancer is more common in older adults, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Signs of oral cancer include sores that don’t heal, lumps in the mouth, and changes in the color or texture of the oral tissue. If oral cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, followed by surgical removal of cancerous tissue if necessary.
Jaw pain and dysfunction are also more likely to develop with age, especially if arthritis affects the temporomandibular joint. Seniors with TMJ disorders may experience chronic pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the issue and restore function.
Oral surgery offers a wide range of benefits for seniors, helping to address both functional and aesthetic concerns. Here are some of the key reasons why seniors may need oral surgery:
Tooth loss and jaw problems can make it difficult to chew, speak, or even smile confidently. Procedures like dental implants and bone grafting can restore your ability to eat and speak properly, improving your quality of life.
Oral health is closely linked to overall health, especially in seniors. Untreated dental issues like gum disease or infections can lead to more serious problems, such as heart disease or diabetes complications. Oral surgery helps address these problems before they lead to further health concerns.
Missing teeth, gum disease, or oral cancer can take a toll on a person’s confidence and self-esteem. Oral surgery not only restores function but also improves the appearance of your smile, allowing you to enjoy social interactions without feeling self-conscious.
Surgical procedures like dental implants and bone grafting provide long-term solutions to oral health problems. Unlike dentures or other temporary fixes, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, offering seniors a permanent way to maintain their oral health.
At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, we understand the unique challenges faced by senior patients and are committed to providing personalized care that prioritizes comfort and safety. Here’s what you can expect when undergoing oral surgery with us:
Before any surgery, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health. This includes examining your teeth, gums, and jawbone using advanced imaging technology, such as 3D cone beam CT scans, to assess the condition of your jaw and plan your treatment.
Based on your evaluation, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need dental implants, bone grafting, or surgery to address TMJ disorders or oral cancer, our team will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
We understand that surgery can be intimidating, especially for seniors. That’s why we offer a range of sedation options, including IV sedation and general anesthesia, to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.
After your surgery, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote a smooth recovery. Our team will monitor your progress during follow-up appointments and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure optimal healing.
At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, Dr. Mark DuVernois and Dr. Scott Marshall are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with years of experience treating senior patients. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Whether you need routine dental care or complex oral surgery, we’re here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
We use state-of-the-art technology and the latest surgical techniques to ensure successful outcomes and faster recovery times. With two convenient locations in El Paso, we make it easy for you to get the specialized care you need.
