Over 50?
Painful oral hygiene?

As eyesight and manual dexterity decline, older people often clean their teeth less thoroughly. The result is increased plaque residues on the teeth. This plaque is the main cause of caries and inflammation of the gums.

Untreated inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) often develops into periodontal disease (periodontitis) which, if left unmanaged, can ultimately result in tooth loss. The latest figures clearly show that, from about the age of 50, more teeth are lost as a result of inflammation of the gums than due to caries. With increasing age, the gums may also retract, leading to exposed dental roots. These become more susceptible to root caries, which develops much more rapidly than caries on dental enamel.

Additionally, scientific studies indicate that periodontitis can also affect or be affected by the state of health. In particular, a link has been established between gum disease and systemic illnesses (cardiovascular system, diabetes, the respiratory tract and the immune system).

Altered dietary habits or regular medication are also frequently responsible for the oral disorders suffered by the over 50 population. A common side effect of drugs is reduced salivation, leading to dryness of the mouth. Saliva performs a variety of functions. It keeps the mouth generally moist. It neutralises the acid medium that forms in the mouth after eating and it helps remineralise the dental enamel. If the supply of saliva is suddenly reduced, susceptibility to caries and irritation of the oral mucosa are greatly increased. Thorough oral hygiene is therefore vital in senior citizens.

A combination of high-quality products with low abrasion of the tooth surface helps to maintain weakened gums healthy and to prevent gum problems.

The right products include very soft toothbrushes, fluoride containing toothpaste and mouth rinse.