The State of Smiles: Why Older Adults in Türkiye Are Struggling

Older adults in Türkiye are facing a silent crisis. Their smiles are suffering. This is not just about looks. Poor oral health can lead to serious health problems. It is a big issue in Türkiye, even with their strong public health insurance. The problem is complex. It is not just about brushing teeth. Many older adults struggle to access dental care. This is often due to money problems or living in remote areas. Even with insurance, getting to a dentist can be hard. Age brings its own challenges. Teeth and gums change as people get older. This makes good oral health even more important. But it also makes maintaining it more difficult. Older adults may have other health issues that make dental care a lower priority. Lifestyle choices play a big role too. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating sugary foods can all harm teeth. These habits are hard to break, especially later in life. Social support can help, but many older adults feel isolated. This makes it even harder to maintain good oral habits. Socioeconomic status is a major factor. Those with lower incomes often can't afford regular dental check-ups. They may also lack education about oral health. This makes them more likely to have poor oral health. It is a cycle that is hard to break. Overall health is connected to oral health. Those with chronic diseases may neglect their teeth. They might not have the energy or money to see a dentist. This can lead to a vicious cycle of poor health. It is important to address both oral and overall health together. Access to healthcare services is crucial. Even with insurance, many older adults find it hard to get to a dentist. They may live far from dental clinics. They might not have transportation. Or they might not know where to go for help. This makes it hard to get the care they need. It is clear that more needs to be done. Targeted research and interventions are necessary. Policymakers need to address these issues. They must ensure that older adults have access to the dental care they need. This is not just about smiles. It is about overall health and well-being.