The majority of oral diseases arise from lifestyle choices, and the reduction of these pathologies is closely linked to behavior changes. It is therefore important to influence these at all ages and to promote habits that will allow them to maintain a good quality of life throughout their aging.
Until retirement age, the French are made aware of good oral health. Beyond age 60, there is a slow and progressive deterioration in dental health, linked to a decrease in oral hygiene and the frequency of visits to the dentist. The transition to retirement is therefore a key moment to raise awareness in this constantly growing population about their dental health capital and the importance of adopting health rules adapted to aging.
Dental health is an indicator of general health, both in terms of pathology and psychological well-being. It is therefore important to inform seniors of the close intercausal relationship between general pathologies and oral health issues. Many scientific studies have demonstrated the close links between periodontal problems (infections of the supporting tissues of the teeth: gums and bones) and type 2 diabetes. A lack of follow-up with the dentist and the absence of regular scaling can result in a serious imbalance of blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, as well as the passage of oral bacteria into the bloodstream, which can lead to serious complications in many organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, …). Healthy aging also depends on a healthy and diverse diet, which can only be maintained if the oral cavity is free from infectious and painful sites and if missing teeth have been replaced. Nutrition is key to maintaining good functional autonomy and preventing chronic illnesses in later years.
The restoration or maintenance of a healthy, comfortable, and functional oral cavity aligns primarily with the improvement of general health and quality of life:
– Aesthetic (relational, affective, family, social life… against withdrawal and isolation)
– Functional (pleasurable, varied, balanced diet, singing, reading,…).
This highlights the importance of reminding seniors about the usefulness of an annual check-up with their dentist to assess their oral health, any necessary treatments, and teaching them appropriate techniques for dental and prosthetic hygiene, as well as providing them with important advice to maintain good general health throughout their aging.
The conference will take place on Monday, September 25, 2006, at 4 PM at the Mediterranean University Center located at 65 Promenade des Anglais.
Attendees will include:
Professor Patrick Mahler, Head of the Department of Odontology at the University Hospital Center in Nice, and his team members: Dr. Julien Laupie, Odontologist from the Gerontology Pole
Dr. Valérie Pouyssegur, Odontologist.
