Aging and oral health: why tooth extractions become more common over time

As we age, our bodies go through a variety of changes—and our mouths are no exception. At Maple Dental, we often see patients in their senior years facing a unique set of dental challenges. One of the most common procedures we perform for older adults is tooth extraction.

While it’s never ideal to lose a tooth, sometimes it’s necessary to maintain overall oral health. So, why do tooth extractions become more common with age? Let’s break it down.

Natural wear and tear on teeth

Just like the rest of the body, teeth go through years of wear and tear. Decades of chewing, grinding, and biting eventually take a toll. Even if you’ve always brushed and flossed religiously, enamel weakens over time. Once enamel is worn down, the teeth are more susceptible to cracks, cavities, and other structural issues that may lead to extraction if not treated early enough.

Gum disease becomes more common

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in older adults. It often starts out silently, with some redness or bleeding when brushing. But over the years, untreated gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive. This can lead to bone loss around the tooth and ultimately require extraction if the tooth becomes too loose or infected.

Medications and dry mouth

Many seniors take medications that can lead to dry mouth, or xerostomia. Without enough saliva to help wash away food and bacteria, the mouth becomes a breeding ground for cavities and infections. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense system, and when that’s compromised, tooth decay can accelerate. In some cases, we have to extract teeth that have become too damaged by decay caused by dry mouth.

Complications from chronic health conditions

Conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease don’t just affect your overall health—they impact your oral health too. For example, people with diabetes may have a higher risk of infections, including gum disease. Osteoporosis can lead to weakened jawbones, making it more difficult for teeth to stay anchored. When health issues interfere with healing or increase the risk of complications, we may recommend extraction as the safest option to preserve overall wellness.

Teeth shifting and misalignment

As we age, it’s not uncommon for teeth to shift, especially if some have already been lost. This movement can cause misalignment and bite issues, which put additional stress on surrounding teeth. Sometimes, a single problematic tooth can impact the comfort and function of the entire mouth. In these cases, removing the troublesome tooth helps us restore balance and reduce pain.

Preparing for dentures or implants

In many cases, we recommend extractions as part of the process of getting dentures or dental implants. If some of your teeth are severely decayed, loose, or interfering with the fit of a new prosthetic, we may remove them to make way for a more comfortable, functional solution. Extractions in these situations are a step toward improving long-term oral health and quality of life.

Why do regular checkups matter more with age?

One of the best things you can do to minimize the need for extractions is to stay on top of your regular dental visits. Our team at Maple Dental keeps a close eye on any changes in your mouth, especially as you get older. By spotting early signs of gum disease, cavities, or structural problems, we can often treat them before extraction becomes necessary.

If you’re looking for a reliable dentist in Hesperia CA, we’re here to help you stay ahead of any issues. Our approach is always focused on preserving your natural teeth whenever possible, and we’ll walk you through every step of the process if extraction is ever needed.

Let us help you protect your smile

If you or a loved one are noticing changes in oral health as the years go by, don’t wait. We can assess any problematic teeth and discuss the best treatment options, whether that’s preserving the tooth or moving forward with a gentle extraction. At Maple Dental, your comfort and health are our top priorities.

Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Give us a call at 760-949-7274 or Book an Appointment. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence at every age!