Growing older doesn’t mean settling for compromised oral health or living with missing teeth that make eating and speaking difficult. While aging brings natural changes to the body, advances in oral surgery now allow seniors to receive safe, effective treatments that restore function and improve quality of life well into their later years.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our team understands the unique needs of older adults facing oral surgical procedures. With operating privileges at Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, we ensure our senior patients receive care in the most appropriate setting for their individual health needs. We take extra time to coordinate with your primary care physician, review your complete medical history, and develop treatment plans that prioritize both safety and optimal outcomes.
What to Consider as a Senior Getting Oral Surgery
Several unique factors influence oral surgery success in older adults, from medication management to healing capacity. Understanding these considerations helps seniors and their families prepare for treatment and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Medical History and Medication Review
Before undergoing any oral surgery, seniors need a comprehensive evaluation of their medical conditions and current medications. According to the American Dental Association, approximately 90 percent of adults aged 65 and older take at least one prescription medication, and 39 percent take five or more. Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin require careful management before surgery to prevent excessive bleeding. Our surgical team works closely with your physicians to determine the safest approach for your specific medication regimen.
Cardiovascular Considerations
Heart disease affects approximately 31 percent of adults over age 65, making cardiovascular assessment essential before oral surgery. Research published by the American Dental Association suggests that epinephrine doses in local anesthetics should be limited in older patients due to age-related changes in heart function.
During your consultation, we evaluate your cardiovascular health and may recommend additional testing, such as an EKG or consultation with your cardiologist. For patients with significant heart concerns, we can arrange for surgical treatment at one of the local hospitals where we maintain operating privileges.
Bone Density and Healing Capacity
Aging naturally affects bone density, which is crucial for procedures such as dental implants or extractions. Seniors with osteoporosis or those taking bisphosphonate medications face additional considerations, as these factors can impact both surgical planning and healing outcomes.
Additionally, healing capacity naturally decreases with age due to changes in cellular function and reduced blood flow to tissues. Our team evaluates these factors during consultation and may adjust surgical techniques or recommend preparatory treatments to optimize healing.
Cognitive and Communication Factors
Cognitive changes ranging from mild forgetfulness to more serious impairment affect many older adults and influence surgical planning. Clear communication is essential during consultation and for post-operative care instructions. We adapt our communication approach based on each patient’s needs, using simple language and written instructions that patients and caregivers can reference at home. For seniors with more significant cognitive limitations, we take extra precautions during surgery, such as using sutures and local hemostatics to ensure proper clotting before sending them home.
Anesthesia Sensitivity
Older adults often deal with increased sensitivity to sedation medications and anesthesia due to age-related changes in central nervous system function. This heightened sensitivity requires careful dose adjustment and closer monitoring throughout the procedure. Before surgery, we discuss your previous experiences with anesthesia and any concerns you may have. Our surgical team is trained in administering appropriate sedation levels for older patients, balancing comfort with safety.
Dry Mouth and Oral Health Maintenance
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, affects up to 40 percent of adults over age 80, primarily as a side effect of medications. This condition significantly impacts oral surgery outcomes, as adequate saliva production is important for wound healing and preventing infection. We provide specific recommendations for managing dry mouth before and after surgery, including staying well-hydrated and using saliva substitutes when appropriate. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more critical during the healing period.
Trust Your Care to Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
Oral surgery in your senior years requires experience, precision, and a team that understands the complexities of treating older adults. Our doctors have extensive training in managing medically complex patients and coordinating care with other healthcare providers to ensure your safety throughout the treatment process. Our highly trained surgical staff, all CPR certified, creates a genuinely caring environment where your comfort and well-being remain the top priority.
If you need oral surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation where we can evaluate your individual needs and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Contact our office to learn more about how we can help you maintain excellent oral health throughout your senior years.
