Aging is a natural process that affects the entire body, including teeth. As we age, teeth undergo various changes that may impact their function and overall health.
Signs of Aging in Teeth
Some common signs of dental aging include:
- Tooth discoloration, where teeth appear more yellow or darker due to enamel thinning and stain accumulation.
- Tooth shortening, caused by daily wear such as chewing and grinding.
- Gum recession, exposing the roots of teeth and increasing sensitivity.
- Tooth loss, which may occur due to gum disease or untreated decay.
Faktor Penyebab Penuaan Gigi
Factors Contributing to Dental Aging Several factors can accelerate tooth aging, including:
- Unhealthy habits, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene.
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes and osteoporosis, which affect oral health.
- Medication use, which can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of tooth damage.
Importance of Dental Care with Age
Maintaining healthy teeth is crucial for a good quality of life in later years. Preventive measures include:
- Practicing good oral hygieneby brushing twice daily and flossing regularly.
- Avoiding foods and beverages that can harm teethespecially those high in sugar or acidity.
- Scheduling regular dental checkupsto detect and address problems early.
UGM’s Role in Oral Health
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues to contribute to oral health through education and research. In the inauguration of three Professors from the Faculty of Dentistry UGM—Prof. Drg. Sri Kuswandari, M.S., Sp.KGA(K), Ph.D., Prof. Drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., and Prof. Dr. Drg. Dewi Agustina, MDSc.—the importance of maintaining oral health in older age was highlighted. Prof. Dewi Agustina noted that deteriorating oral conditions in the elderly are not merely due to aging itself, but are often the result of accumulated oral diseases left untreated. Meanwhile, Prof. Sri Kuswandari emphasized that xerostomia (dry mouth), caused by reduced saliva flow, is common among the elderly and often results from uncontrolled systemic diseases like diabetes mellitus or long-term use of medications such as antihypertensives. Therefore, enhancing oral health is essential to ensure an optimal quality of life in old age.
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Teeth do age, but with proper care, the effects can be minimized. It is important to be aware of changes that occur and to take proactive steps in maintaining oral health throughout life.
References
Prof. drg. Sri Kuswandari, M.S., Sp.KGA (K)., Ph.D., Prof. drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., dan Prof. Dr. drg. Dewi Agustina, MDSc., UGM Inaugurates Three Professors from Faculty of Dentistry, https://ugm.ac.id/id/berita/ugm-kukuhkan-3-guru-besar-sekaligus/
Aenulis: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Foto: freepik
