Blue Coast Dental Group Blog

As we age, our oral health needs change, and one of the most common concerns among older adults is gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, this condition affects the tissues that support your teeth and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. While gum disease can develop at any age, it tends to be more prevalent in older adults due to a combination of factors related to aging, health, and lifestyle. Here are 4 common causes of gum disease in older adults and what you can do to protect your smile.

1. Plaque Buildup from Inconsistent Oral Care

Over time, even small lapses in brushing or flossing can lead to a buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that clings to teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t removed regularly, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Tartar irritates the gums and leads to inflammation, a key early sign of gum disease known as gingivitis. Because older adults may have arthritis, limited dexterity, or rely on dentures, maintaining thorough daily oral care can be more challenging. Using electric toothbrushes, floss holders, or water flossers can make daily hygiene easier and more effective.

2. Dry Mouth from Medications

Many older adults take prescription medications for conditions like high blood pressure, allergies, or depression. Unfortunately, one common side effect of these medications is dry mouth (xerostomia)—a condition where the mouth produces less saliva.

Saliva plays an important role in washing away bacteria and food particles. When saliva levels drop, bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. Staying hydrated, using sugar-free gum or lozenges, and speaking with your dentist about saliva substitutes can help combat dry mouth.

3. Underlying Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions that are more common with age—such as diabetes, heart disease, and weakened immune function—can make the gums more vulnerable to infection. For example, high blood sugar in diabetic patients can create an environment where bacteria grow more easily.

Managing these health conditions with your doctor’s guidance and maintaining consistent dental visits can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease.

4. Ill-Fitting Dentures or Missing Teeth

Gaps from missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures can cause irritation to the gums and make cleaning difficult. This can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to inflammation and infection.

If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, visit your dentist for an adjustment or reline. Properly fitting dentures not only improve comfort but also help protect gum health.

Gum disease isn’t an inevitable part of aging—it’s preventable. By maintaining consistent oral hygiene, managing medical conditions, staying hydrated, and visiting your dentist regularly, older adults can keep their gums healthy and enjoy a strong, confident smile for years to come.

About the Practice

Here at Blue Coast Dental Group, we can provide gum disease therapy with laser dentistry to treat infected gum tissue. Also, with an in-house periodontist available, you can expect to get the very best treatment available. Worried about costs? No problem – we’re in-network with many dental insurance plans. Go ahead, schedule your appointment through our website or call (310) 424-3100.

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If you’ve noticed that your gums look red, puffy, or tender, you’re not alone—swollen gums are a common dental concern. Ignoring gum inflammation can allow a small issue to develop into a serious dental or health problem. So, should you be worried about swollen gums? The short answer is: it depends on the cause. Let’s take a closer look at what might be behind your gum swelling and when it’s time to see your dentist.

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When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often considered the gold standard. They look, feel, and function the same as your natural teeth, and better yet, they can last for decades with the right care. But beyond the basics, there are plenty of cool facts and tidbits of information about dental implants floating around out there—as well as some misinformation and myths. Here’s a closer look at a few proven dental implant facts that just might inspire you to pursue the treatment to replace your missing teeth!

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When it comes to restoring your smile, sometimes a single treatment like a filling or a dental crown isn’t enough to get the job done. If you have multiple dental issues affecting multiple teeth, your gums, your bite, or other parts of your smile, a full mouth reconstruction could be the solution you need to regain your confidence and your oral function. Here’s a closer look at some of the treatments that often play a role in this process, so that if you’re on the fence, you can be sure that you’re making the right call.

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Is bruxism causing you to grind and clench your teeth while you’re asleep? If so, a nightguard could help protect your smile from the worst of the damage. There are two main kinds of nightguards: professional ones provided by a dentist and over-the-counter ones bought at a store. Not sure which option is right for you? Here’s a closer look at the differences between them.

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It’s no secret that chronic stress can affect your body and your mental health in all kinds of ways. In particular, it can lead to an increased risk for heart problems, anxiety, depression, and weight gain. But did you realize it could also be having a negative impact on your smile? Surprisingly, chronic stress can often be linked to a number of oral health issues. Here’s a closer look at this connection – as well as the steps you can take to prevent dental problems and protect your overall well-being.

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For some, life isn’t about sitting at a desk or watching Netflix. They’d rather be out in the world and moving! If you play sports or take your skating seriously, you probably know to wear a helmet, pads, or gloves. But do you ever think about your teeth? That’s where a custom-fitted mouthguard comes in. It can save you from chipped teeth, soft tissue injuries, and even jaw fractures. But what sports really depend on this small piece of gear to safeguard your smile? Keep reading to find out.

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When you look at dental floss, it might seem like a simple string, but it’s actually the result of hundreds of years of innovation. People have been cleaning between their teeth for centuries, but it wasn’t with the sleek twine you use today. If you’re curious about how the floss over your sink came to be, continue reading. You’ll learn the surprisingly fascinating and unusual story of its evolution.

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If you are one to travel all the time for work or pleasure, then getting any procedure can make you wonder if you need to push back the visit. Many people wonder if dental implants will take them out of commission for a while, especially since replacing missing teeth as soon as possible is beneficial. Here is what you should know!

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When it comes to myths, you may imagine different legends about a boy who flew too close to the sun or how different creatures found their way into the world. These stories are a classic way to spread around culture, but have you heard of any modern myths? Some of them revolve around common procedures like dental implants!

These misconceptions may not be as extravagant, so they might seem very convincing. Often, people tend to second-guess getting this treatment because of them! Continue reading to learn the truth behind five common dental implant myths.

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