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The TRDP and retirees’ oral health needs go hand-in-hand

Although we are seeing more and more members of the Uniformed Services retiring at an earlier age, today’s typical enrollee in the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) is 62 years old*. But whether you are well below or somewhat above the average TRDP enrollee’s age, there are some very important things you should know about your oral health as you get older, making regular visits to the dentist even more important. The TRDP can help you take care of your teeth so they last a lifetime.

Proper oral care can keep your mouth healthy well into your later years. Contrary to common belief, tooth loss is primarily the result of preventable oral disease and not a result of the aging process. Taking care of your teeth can help them last a lifetime. As you get older, your dental needs become increasingly specialized, making regular visits to the dentist even more essential. Some common problems to watch for are:

• Gum (periodontal) disease. Most people don't realize how important it is to take care of their gums as well as their teeth. Gum disease is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue.  It is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss.  Gum disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis, and affects about three out of every four people at some point in their lives.
   
  
• Gingivitis. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease that is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional treatment. Gingivitis is caused by the bacteria found in plaque. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and possible bleeding when you brush. If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist at once. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance into periodontitis.
  
  
• Periodontitis.  Periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease, affects more than half of 65- to 74-year-olds. With this condition, bacterial infection causes your gums and the bone supporting the teeth to break down. Your gums may begin to recede, pulling back from the teeth. In the worst cases, the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed and, if untreated, can lead to tooth loss.
  
  
• Oral cancer. Oral cancer most often occurs in people over 40 years of age. See a dentist immediately if you notice any red or white patches on your gums, tongue or other oral tissues, and watch for sores that fail to heal within two weeks. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages, when it can be cured more easily. Your dentist should perform a head and neck exam to screen for signs of cancer at your regular checkups.
  
  
• Dry mouth. Many seniors take medications that can cause changes to the oral tissues. Many common medications cause a decrease in saliva, leading to dry mouth. Since saliva plays a major role in preventing tooth decay by rinsing away bacteria and food particles and by neutralizing harmful acids, you should talk to your dentist about ways to treat dry mouth.
  
  
• Difficulty brushing and flossing. If you have arthritis, you may find it difficult to brush and floss. Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem. Certain dental products are designed to make oral care more comfortable. You may want to try strapping the toothbrush to a larger object, such as a ball, to make the brush more comfortable to handle. Electric toothbrushes do a good job removing plaque and can help by doing some of the work for you. Tools to help make flossing easier are available in most drug stores.
  
  
• Limited dentist access. Some seniors have less access to dental services because of lack of transportation, medical conditions or limited mobility. Family members or caregivers can play an important role in helping to schedule regular dental visits for homebound seniors or those in nursing homes. Seniors planning to enter a nursing home or assisted living facility should inquire about the facility’s dental care service.

Regular dentist visits can do more than keep your teeth healthy — they can tell a dentist a lot about your overall health, including whether you may be developing a disease like diabetes. New research suggests good oral health is essential to good overall health and high quality of life. The best way to achieve good oral health is to prevent disease through daily brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist regularly. And remember: The TRDP pays 100 percent of the allowed program costs towards diagnostic and preventive services that include exams, x-rays and cleanings, with no applicable deductible. Coverage for periodontic treatment, when needed, is also available under the TRDP.

*As of 4/15/10 

Some information courtesy of the Academy of General Dentistry

Posted: June 01, 2010

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