Seniors and Dental Care
A healthysmile is something people of all ages strive for; however, aging often comeswith an increasing amount of dental concerns. Caring for teeth and gums isoften neglected in elderly adults for various reasons, such as the cost and thepain involved in certain treatments. Unfortunately, when oral health care isreduced, there are a range of problems and damages that can occur and many ofthe issues that affect the mouth can increase or worsen as people age. Poor dental care has also been linkedto general health conditions, especially heart disease, so as seniors, it isessential to maintain good oral health.
DryMouth
One of themost common oral care problems many seniors face is dry mouth, which is acommon side effect of prescription medications. Unfortunately, dry mouth canalso lead to a variety of other problems, including the development of cavitieson the roots of teeth. A lack of saliva production can also increase thebacteria in the mouth, which can travel through the body and develop intoserious, even life-threatening infections.
Signsof Oral Health Problems in Seniors
Even if youdo not have teeth, it is still highly recommended that you visit your dentistat least once a year for a complete oral exam. As you age, you may have oralhealth issues that you aren’t aware of. Some of the signs of oral healthproblems in a senior may include:
- Loss of teeth
- Gum Disease
- Fungus growth, such as the development of thrush in the mouth
- Difficulty wearing and/or a negative physical reaction to your dentures
- A change in your taste sensation
- Dry mouth
- A change in tooth color
- An uneven appearance on the jawline or face (often due to tooth loss)
OralCare Tips for Seniors
Regardlessof your age, daily flossing and brushing your natural teeth is important forkeeping them in good oral health. Plaque can quickly build up on your teeth,which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. If you wear dentures, it isimportant to keep them just as clean as you would your natural teeth; talk toyour dentist about how to clean your dentures daily. Seniors should brush atleast two times each day with a fluoride containing toothpaste, floss at leastonce each day, rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash at least once aday and visit your dentist regularly for cleaning and a comprehensive oralexamination.
Caring foryour teeth and gums shouldn’t stop as you age and with basic oral care androutine dental exams, seniors can have a healthy mouth for many years to come.If certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, interfere with the ability tobrush your teeth, talk with your dentist about alternative brushing devices,such as an electric or battery operated toothbrush.
ContactGreat Lakes Dental to schedule your cleaning and oral exam.