Declining oral health
As reported by the CDC, approximately 26% of Americans aged 65 and older have fewer teeth and suffer from dental problems. This should work as a reminder that oral health is on a descending path as we get older. Dental conditions associated with aging include dry mouth, root and coronal caries, and periodontal disease. In time and left untreated, declining oral health can even lead to pharyngeal cancer in older adults.
Treatment for oral health does not come cheap. According to a report of the American Dental Association, in 2019, the costs related to dental health reached $136 billion. A basic dental exam can cost between $50-$200, while specific dental procedures such as extractions could go as high as $50-$900, while a root canal costs $300-$2,000.
