There are a number of risk factors that predispose seniors to higher rates of tooth decay and subsequent tooth loss than any other segment of our society.

First and foremost is the fact that as we age there is less and less nerve tissue in our teeth. This substantially reduces our ability to sense the early signs of tooth decay. There is usually no pain or discomfort until considerable damage has occurred.

The second predisposing condition is gum recession. As the gums recede there is more tooth surface to maintain. This newly exposed surface is not covered by enamel, making it more susceptible to tooth decay than other parts of the teeth. The tooth also has an irregular surface, there are grooves and concavities where the roots join one another, further complicating daily brushing.

Finally, a change in the amount or consistency of saliva, a common complaint of older patients, causes debris to stagnate between teeth, at the edges of restorations, or at the gum line, adding yet another risk factor for tooth decay in seniors.