Learn what makes good oral health crucial after 50 | Pierce County

Our teeth can last a lifetime with proper home care and regular dental checkups. But after age 50, adults face a variety of unique challenges. Ignoring these issues can lead to painful and expensive consequences for their oral health. Over 30% of seniors have untreated cavities.

February 1, 2016 6:46 pm
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Over 30% of seniors have untreated cavities. Almost 25% of adults have periodontal disease and ultimately nearly 30% will lose teeth.
Over 30% of seniors have untreated cavities. Almost 25% of adults have periodontal disease and ultimately nearly 30% will lose teeth.

Our teeth can last a lifetime with proper home care and regular dental checkups. But after age 50, adults face a variety of unique challenges. Ignoring these issues can lead to painful and expensive consequences for their oral health. Over 30% of seniors have untreated cavities. Almost 25% of adults have periodontal disease and ultimately nearly 30% will lose teeth.

“Caring for Your Teeth after 50” will provide important information about effective oral care and health. Particularly after 50 years of age, the mouth and teeth begin to change. This is often compounded by changes in diet and metabolism, increased use of medications and other medical conditions. In addition, people visit their dentist less frequently. Oral health is also directly linked to many chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and dementia.

“Older adults have to pay attention to their oral health,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources manager. “Good health, good diet and good teeth are closely connected. We want people to understand the connections and learn about the enormous benefits of ongoing prevention.”

“Caring for Your Teeth after 50” will be offered three times in February:

  • Feb. 17: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Sound View Building, Suite 200, 3602 Pacific Ave. in Tacoma
  • Feb. 18: 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., County-City Building Rainier Conference Room, 7th Floor, 930 Tacoma Ave. S in Tacoma
  • Feb. 19, 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., Pierce County Annex, 2401 S. 35th St. in Tacoma

The workshops will be presented by Claire Brannan, owner of Mobile Classes and Consulting. Clare teaches classes to caregivers and seniors to help them better understand common issues facing aging adults. Her presentation is sponsored by the Washington Dental Services Foundation and Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources.

All sessions are free and there is no RSVP required. For more information please call the Pierce County Aging & Disability Resource Center at (253) 798-4600 or (800) 562-0332. In case of inclement weather call (253) 798-8787 for possible postponement or cancellation.

 

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