Baby Boomers and Oral Health in 2018

With 77 billion baby boomers in America, people born between 1946 and 1964, “Boomers,” are the largest generation both before and after World War II. All baby boomers will be over 65 by 2030.

Baby boomers control disposable income. In fact, baby boomers will inherit 15 trillion over the next 20 years. With that being said, baby boomers are less likely to practice good oral hygiene habits.

Baby Boomers and the Link to Teeth and Gums

With age come old dental restorations. Baby boomers that aren’t diligent with health care will see more problems. If you follow the Dental Cosmetics  Blog, you will know that there is a connection between oral and overall health.

Because of lifestyle, a large percentage of baby boomers aren’t scheduling regular dental appointments. Regular exams with Dr. Jack Ringer, past president and Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Bi-annual dental checkups also help detect any mouth abnormalities.

Poor Oral health in Baby Boomers is on the Rise

Statistics show that baby boomers are not practicing the oral health habits that they should.

The survey showed that only 40 percent used mouthwash daily. Of those taking the survey, 47 percent rarely flossed with thirty four percent brushing just once a day.

Why are poor oral hygiene habits on the rise? It could have to do with health problems or baby boomers not being able to brush as they used to.

According to Dr. Ringer, poor oral health could have consequences

• Chronic Halitosis-Bad breath could be an indication of diabetes, so could bleed gums
• Dental X-Rays show loss of bone
• Jaw Pain could be an early warning of a heart attack

Dr. Ringer explains that baby boomers are very vulnerable to osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease all of which increase as you age.

Research is showing that gum disease and bad bacteria puts patients in the high-risk category when it comes to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Studies show that 90 percent of systemic diseases originate in the oral cavity due to dry mouth, periodontal disease, mouth ulcers, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.

These Diseases Include:

• Oral Cancer
• Leukemia
• Diabetes
• Kidney Disease
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Heart Disease

Regular dental checkups help prevent health problems in their earliest stages. The survival rate for oral cancer is much higher if detected early on.

Other Oral Health Issues with Baby Boomers

Worn teeth are a real issue with people over the age of 54. Clenching and grinding, or bruxism, affects millions of people all over the United States. Teeth that are worn can cause a number of problems including TMJ disorders. Jaws that are misaligned will cause pain.

Poor nutrition may also be a problem with baby boomers, as some are not eating a proper diet to maintain teeth and gum health. Poor nutrition leads to weakened enamel, dry mouth, and gum issues. Dr. Ringer will examine your mouth to determine if the diet you are following is good for your teeth and gums.

Dental Care is Essential for Boomers

If you are a baby boomer, or know someone who is, dental care is essential. Call or click and schedule a comprehensive dental exam with Dr. Jack Ringer.

Your Anaheim Hills Dentist will thoroughly check your entire mouth for abnormalities. Remember, if something isn’t right, your dentist is usually the first to know.

Call for a dental appointment with Dr. Jack Ringer. Your teeth and gums depend on it. Call today.