Together with ClearChoice
Good oral health is something we all strive to attain. As we get older, it’s especially important to take care of our teeth and gums – not only for aesthetic reasons, but to improve our overall health. We recently sat down with Diana Cuesta, DMD, MS, from the ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Aventura, FL, to answer some questions.
Ask the Expert: Dental Health
1. Why do my teeth seem more sensitive than they used to be?
As we age, our gums naturally recede a bit, and the protective enamel on our teeth can wear down. This can expose the inner layer of the tooth called dentin, which is more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. Hormonal changes after menopause may also affect your gums and teeth, making them more reactive.
2. Am I at greater risk for gum disease after menopause?
Yes. After menopause, lower estrogen levels can lead to drier, more inflamed gums and even bone loss around the teeth. That makes gum disease more likely. Osteoporosis, which is also more common after menopause, can also weaken the bones that support your teeth.
3. What’s causing my dry mouth—and is it harmful?
Dry mouth is really common after 50. It can be caused by changes in hormones or by medications for things like high blood pressure, anxiety, or bone health. A dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it also makes it easier for cavities and gum disease to start, since saliva helps protect your teeth.
4. Are dental implants safe and effective at my age?
Absolutely. Dental implants work well for healthy people at any age, even into their 70s and 80s. What matters most is the condition of your jawbone and overall health—not your birthdate. Implants can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence again.
5. Can oral health affect my heart or bones?
Yes, there’s a real connection. Gum disease has been linked to heart problems and stroke, likely because of inflammation and bacteria that enter the bloodstream. And if you have osteoporosis, it can affect your jawbone and increase the risk of tooth loss.
6. How often should I really see the dentist now?
Twice a year is a good rule of thumb, but if you have dry mouth, gum issues, diabetes, or other health conditions, your dentist might want to see you more often. These checkups aren’t just about cleanings—they catch little problems before they become big ones.
7. Should I be concerned about oral cancer at my age?
It’s smart to be aware. The risk of oral cancer goes up after 50, especially if you smoke, drink, or had a lot of sun exposure (which can affect your lips). The good news? Your dentist can check for early signs during regular exams, when it’s easiest to treat.
About the Expert
Diana Cuesta, DMD, MS, is an esteemed prosthodontist at ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Aventura, FL. She earned her undergraduate degree in Neurobiology from Harvard University. She went on to receive her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where she graduated with honors in Clinical Dentistry. She later completed advanced training in prosthodontics and received her specialty certificate at the University of Illinois at Chicago. During her residency, she earned a Master’s degree in Oral Sciences for her research on zirconia materials for implant restorations.
Specializing in fixed, full-arch dental restorations, Dr. Cuesta works closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver patient-centric, best-in-class dental implant solutions and techniques that can help improve the lives of Aventura residents. By bringing together prosthodontics, oral surgery, technicians, and an innovative dental prosthetics lab under one roof, Dr. Cuesta can deliver a more timely, seamless, and comprehensive treatment path for patients suffering from advanced oral disease.
Dr. Cuesta prides herself on treating patients like family. Her priority is to use her training and expertise to improve the comfort and confidence of her patients. She views dentistry as both a science and an art, and her interests lie in implant dentistry, full mouth rehabilitation, digital dentistry, and materials science. In addition to being a key member of the team at ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Aventura, Dr. Cuesta is an active member of the American College of Prosthodontists and the American Dental Association. She is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, and in her free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
