Illnesses & Their Medications Can Affect Oral Health

Most older Americans take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Over 400 commonly used medications can be the cause of a dry mouth. Reduction of salivary flow increases the risk for oral disease since saliva contains antimicrobial components as well as minerals that help rebuild tooth enamel attacked by decay-causing bacteria. Individuals in long-term care facilities - about 5 percent of the elderly - take an average of eight drugs each day.

Painful conditions that affect facial nerves are more common among the elderly and can be severely debilitating. These conditions can affect mood, sleep, and oral-motor functions such as chewing and swallowing. Neurological diseases associated with age, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and stroke also affect oral sensory and motor functions, in addition to limiting the ability to care for oneself.