Oral Health as You Age

with Dr. Leo Marchini,

Professor and Chair of the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics

This week on the Art of Aging, host Rev. Beth Long-Higgins chats with Dr. Leo Marchini, Professor and Chair of the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics. During the episode, Beth and Leo discuss the importance of geriatric dentistry and special care dentistry for older adults with disabilities. Leo explains the impact of aging on oral health, including dental diseases and changes in teeth and gums. He also addresses the barriers to oral care for older adults and the need for improved access to dental care, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and a healthy diet for maintaining oral health as we age and more.
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Notes:

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Leo’s background and passion for dental health (1:48)
  • The state of oral health for older adults (9:03)
  • Changes in our mouths as we age (17:22)
  • Normal changes in teeth and gums with aging (19:17)
  • The impact of access to dental care on oral health (26:31)
  • The importance of dental appointments for individuals with health issues (33:47)
  • The need for dental care in nursing homes (40:12)
  • The importance of preventive measures (46:55)
  • Final thoughts and takeaways (50:00)

 

Abundant Aging is a podcast series presented by United Church Homes. These shows offer ideas, information, and inspiration on how to improve our lives as we grow older. To learn more and to subscribe to the show, visit abundantagingpodcast.com. 

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