How to Have Strong Oral Hygiene as a Senior
In this day and age, many seniors can admit to proudly having every tooth they were born with. As to how so many can accomplish this, it’s often due to many years of strong oral hygiene as well as routine visits to the dentist. Even with strict care, however, there are many additional challenges that come with aging, and it’s important that senior dental patients make sure to step up their game to preserve their natural teeth as long as possible. Certain facets of aging can increase one’s risk of developing dental problems, but knowing these risks ahead of time and taking action could potentially help you prevent these troublesome issues.
Tooth Decay
One of the most common dental concerns among seniors is dry mouth (or decreased saliva production), which can be the result of radiation treatments or an underlying disease as well as be a side effect of medication. Saliva works by neutralizing bacterial toxins within the mouth, and losing saliva can allow these germs to grow on the teeth or any root surfaces that have been exposed by gum recession.
While regular brushing and limiting sugar intake are vital, your dentist might also recommend prescription-level fluoride toothpaste for extra protection from cavities. You should also moisturize your mouth by drinking enough water, sucking on lozenges, chewing sugar-free gum, or even clearing your nasal passages to avoid your mouth doing most of your breathing.
Gum Disease
Per the Academy of General Dentistry, roughly one quarter of adults between 65 and 74 years of age have developed severe periodontal or gum disease. Because gum disease causes damage to the tissue and bone surrounding the teeth, an untreated case could lead to tooth loss. As well, smoking, diabetes, and osteoporosis can further an existing case of gum disease. It is bacteria within the mouth that causes gum disease, so a consistent oral healthcare routine as well as regular dental cleanings should help prevent the disease’s development.
Worn Dental Work
As you get older, so does your old dental work—fillings installed many years ago may start breaking down or leaking, leading to decay. If you notice sensitivity or pain developing around past dental work, see your dental professional. Extensive treatment, such as crowns and root canals, can be avoided if broken or leaky fillings are taken care of as soon as possible.
Overcoming Hurdles to Strong Oral Hygiene
For
older dental patients, when arthritis or a similar physical limitation causes
brushing teeth and flossing to be much harder, your dental professional can
suggest products and methods for simplifying home dental care while still
effectively cleaning teeth. Special bristle patterns, electric toothbrushes, interdental
cleaners, and floss holders are just a few changes that could make a huge
difference in your daily oral healthcare routine. Regarding senior patients
staying in hospitals or nursing homes, make sure to request special dental
assistance, if necessary, for the former and inquire about the quality of the oral
healthcare provided by the facility for the latter.
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