While we’ve had occasion over the years to discuss dental health as you get older, the evidence keeps mounting that a healthy mouth is linked to healthier and happier aging, and, conversely, dental problems can be serious health concerns and may themselves trigger other serious, even life-threatening health problems. 

First, consider the data regarding aging and dental health. According to a recent article in The Washington Post, 20% of adults 65 and over have untreated tooth decay, and more than ⅔ have gum disease. While in theory, your teeth should last for your entire life, the reality is that for many, that’s not the case. In fact, 1 out of 5 Americans over age 75 no longer has their natural teeth. For many reasons, that’s a worrisome statistic, especially in light of a recent study reporting that having fewer than 10 teeth in your mouth as an older adult puts you at 66% higher risk of dying from heart-related illness in comparison to someone who has more teeth.

There is mounting evidence of the connection between poor dental health and poor cardiovascular health. It appears that periodontal disease, which causes infection and inflammation of the gums and can damage soft tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place, can lead to harmful bacteria entering your bloodstream and narrowing or blocking arteries. Dr. Peter Attia, the renowned longevity expert, recently reported on a study of ICU patients that found a connection between mouth bacteria and hospital-acquired pneumonia (usually involving patients on ventilators). When proper dental hygiene and tooth brushing were initiated, the incidence of pneumonia decreased and patients left the ICU quicker. Dr. Attia also mentioned that those with periodontal disease have a 1.7-fold increase in the risk of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, which corresponds to a recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging, which found an association between the oral microbiome found in your mouth and your cognitive functioning. It seems clear at this point that poor dental hygiene, leading to harmful bacteria in your mouth which can travel to all parts of your body, including your brain, can put you at risk for serious health concerns as you get older. How to forestall this? As you’re probably aware, seeing a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups as well as twice a day brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing can go a long way toward keeping your mouth in check and your health in a better state. For more on this association between healthier aging and your oral microbiome, rinse and spit and read here. 

So how can you keep your mouth as healthy as possible? Beyond the usual basic dental hygienics of brushing and flossing, you’re advised to follow up quickly on tooth pain, bleeding gums, and dry mouth problems, as all can be signs of gum disease that can lead to infection, inflammation, and even tooth loss. The New York Times also recently posted a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to proper teeth care, including brushing techniques and food and drinks to avoid. And if aging hands (for example, arthritis or tremors) are getting in the way of proper tooth care, take a look here at some suggestions regarding easier-to-use electric toothbrushes and easy flossing tools.