Tooth Loss in Older Adults: What You Need to Know

Losing teeth can happen when we get older. This is a big problem for many seniors. Let’s learn about why this happens and what we can do about it.

What is Tooth Loss?

Tooth loss means when teeth fall out or need to be pulled out. Many older adults have this problem. When all teeth are gone, it is called edentulism.

Did you know? 12.9% of adults over 65 have no natural teeth left.[^1]

Why Do Older Adults Lose Teeth?

There are many reasons why teeth fall out:

• Gum disease – This makes gums sick and teeth loose
• Tooth decay – Holes in teeth that get bigger
• Dry mouth – Not enough spit to keep teeth clean
• Smoking – Very bad for teeth and gums
• Poor diet – Not eating foods that help teeth stay strong

The chances of tooth loss go up when people:

• Don’t see the dentist
• Don’t brush teeth every day
• Have health problems like diabetes
• Take medicines that dry the mouth

Who is Most Likely to Lose Teeth?

Not all older adults lose teeth the same way. Look at this:

People with less money and school often have more tooth loss. This is not fair, but it is true.

Why Tooth Loss Matters

Losing teeth is not just about how you look. It can cause big problems:

1. Hard to eat healthy foods like fruits and vegetables
2. Trouble talking clearly
3. Feeling shy or sad about how you look
4. Can make other health problems worse
5. Bone loss in the jaw

Dr. Smith from the American Dental Association says: “When teeth are lost, the bone that held them starts to go away too.”

How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy

You can help prevent tooth loss by:

• Brushing teeth twice every day with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing between teeth once a day
• Visiting the dentist, even if you have no pain
• Eating healthy foods with less sugar
• Drinking water instead of sweet drinks
• Stopping smoking

For older adults with arthritis, try:

• Toothbrushes with big handles
• Floss picks instead of regular floss
• Electric toothbrushes that do more work for you

What to Do if You Lose Teeth

If teeth are already lost, there are ways to fix the problem:

Dentures

Dentures are fake teeth you can take out. They help you eat and talk better.

• Full dentures replace all teeth
• Partial dentures replace some teeth
• Cost: $1,800-$3,500 for full set

Learn more about dentures for seniors

Dental Implants

Dental implants are metal posts put in the jaw bone with fake teeth on top. They feel more like real teeth.

• Last a very long time
• Look very real
• Cost more than dentures
• Work well for seniors needing tooth replacement

Bridges

Dental bridges connect to teeth next to the empty space.

• Good when just a few teeth are missing
• Don’t come out like dentures
• Less expensive than implants

Problems Getting Dental Care

Many older adults have trouble getting dental care:

• Medicare does not pay for most dental work
• Only 2% of seniors have dental insurance
• Medicaid coverage is different in each state
• Many dentists do not take Medicaid
• Hard to get to the dentist without a ride

In nursing homes, 34% of seniors had urgent dental needs but couldn’t get help.

Low-Cost Dental Care Options

If you need dental help but worry about money:

1. Dental schools – Students help you for less money
2. Community health centers – Lower cost care
3. Clinical trials – Free care if you join a study
4. Dental Lifeline Network – Helps people who can’t afford care

Success Stories

Mrs. Johnson, age 72: “I lost my back teeth and couldn’t chew well. My doctor told me about a low-cost clinic. Now I have partial dentures without metal clasps and can eat all my favorite foods again!”

Mr. Garcia, age 80: “After getting dental implants for my front teeth, I feel happy to smile in pictures with my grandkids.”

Recent Research

The World Health Organization and National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research are finding new ways to help:

• Special fluoride treatments that stop cavities
• New types of dental materials that last longer
• Better ways to treat gum disease
• Ways to grow new teeth in labs

Community Programs That Help

Some places have programs to help seniors with dental care:

• Fluoridated water in cities reduces tooth decay by 25%
• Mobile dental vans go to senior centers
• Teledentistry lets dentists check problems by computer
• Oral Health America helps find low-cost care

Questions People Often Ask

Take Action Now

Don’t wait until all your teeth hurt or fall out. Here’s what to do:

1. Call a dentist and make an appointment
2. Ask about payment plans if you worry about money
3. Brush and floss every day, even if some teeth are gone
4. Eat healthy foods that are good for teeth
5. Tell your doctor about mouth pain or loose teeth

Remember: Keeping even some of your natural teeth is better than losing them all.

More Resources

Want to learn more? Check these helpful places:

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Information on oral health
• Dental Lifeline Network: Help for people who can’t afford dental care
• American Dental Association: Tips for senior oral health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Facts about tooth loss

Key Facts to Remember

• 12.9% of adults over 65 have no natural teeth
• People with less education have 3x more tooth loss
• Fluoridation reduces tooth decay by 25%
• Complete dentures cost about $1,800-$3,500
• 34% of nursing home residents have urgent dental needs

Taking care of your teeth helps you stay healthy, eat well, and smile with confidence!