Oral Health in Older Adults: Findings from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Oral health plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of older adults, yet this population remains at heightened risk for dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) emphasizes that maintaining good oral health requires both preventive behaviors and systemic public health strategies.

One key concern for older adults is untreated root surface decay, which can occur when the tooth’s root becomes exposed due to gum recession. This condition is more common in older individuals, especially those with chronic health issues, poor diet, or inadequate oral hygiene. Preventive measures such as regular dental checkups, the use of fluoride mouthwash, and caregiver education are essential in reducing this risk (ODPHP, n.d.-a).

Tooth loss remains another significant issue. Data from 2017–2020 indicate that 8.9% of adults aged 45 and older had lost all their natural teeth, an increase from 7.9% during 2013–2016. The Healthy People 2030 target aims to reduce complete tooth loss to 5.4%. Factors contributing to tooth loss include untreated decay and gum disease, which may be more prevalent among individuals with lower income, less education, or belonging to certain racial and ethnic minority groups (ODPHP, n.d.-b).

Periodontal disease, specifically moderate to severe periodontitis, affects a large portion of the aging population. In 2015–2016, 44.5% of adults aged 45 and older had moderate or severe periodontitis, with a target reduction to 39.3%. Periodontal disease can contribute to systemic health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes complications, making its prevention especially important for older adults (ODPHP, n.d-c).

Beyond clinical conditions, ODPHP highlights dry mouth as a common problem for older adults. Often caused by medications, chronic diseases, or cancer treatments, dry mouth can interfere with speaking, eating, and swallowing, while also increasing the risk of infection. Addressing dry mouth through medical consultation and hydration is part of maintaining oral comfort and function.

Preventive habits, such as eating a balanced diet low in added sugars, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, and receiving regular professional dental care,are strongly recommended. The ODPHP’s guidance and Healthy People 2030 objectives underscore that improving oral health in older adults requires both individual actions and broader community-based interventions.

In conclusion, oral health remains a vital yet often overlooked aspect of aging. By prioritizing prevention, early intervention, and equitable access to dental care, the health outcomes and quality of life for older adults can be significantly improved.

References

ODPHP. (n.d-a). Reduce the proportion of older adults with untreated root surface decay — OH-04. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/oral-conditions/reduce-proportion-older-adults-untreated-root-surface-decay-oh-04

ODPHP. (n.d-b). Reduce the proportion of adults aged 45 years and over who have lost all their teeth — OH-05. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/oral-conditions/reduce-proportion-adults-aged-45-years-and-over-who-have-lost-all-their-teeth-oh-05

ODPHP. (n.d-c). Reduce the proportion of adults aged 45 years and over with moderate and severe periodontitis — OH-06. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/oral-conditions/reduce-proportion-adults-aged-45-years-and-over-moderate-and-severe-periodontitis-oh-06

ODPHP. (n.d.).Oral health for older adults: Quick tips. MyHealthfinder. https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/oral-health-older-adults-quick-tips