Ageing and the Mouth
One of the changes you may notice as you grow older is that it’s harder to keep your teeth clean and white, you have reduced saliva flow and you are losing your appetite due to a change in your sense of taste.
Why do my Teeth appear darker?
One of the changes you may notice, as you grow older is that it is harder to keep your teeth clean and white. This is because the sticky, colourless layer of bacteria called plaque can build up faster and in greater amounts as we age.
Changes in dentine, the yellow core of the tooth, may also cause your teeth to appear slightly darker. Small cracks that appear in the teeth with age can also pick up stains. These cracks are a result of wear and tear.
It is possible to reverse these darkening effects by a teeth-whitening process.
Why does my mouth feel dry?
Reduced saliva flow that results in a dry mouth is a common problem among older adults. It is caused by certain medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers and diuretics.
Some of the common problems associated with dry mouth include a constant sore throat, burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages. Left untreated, dry mouth can damage your teeth. Without adequate saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food, and neutralise the acids produced by plaque, extensive cavities can form.
The range of GC products are extremely useful in helping to alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth.
Why am I losing my sense of taste?
You may find that you are losing your appetite due to a change in your sense of taste.
Several factors can cause this change. Besides an age-related decrease in the sense of taste and smell, certain diseases, medications and dentures can contribute to a decrease in your sense of taste.
