Oral hygiene is an important aspect of home care for the elderly. Good dental health can dramatically improve your loved one's quality of life by allowing them to eat the foods they enjoy and talk and smile confidently.
As people age, they lose the skill required to clean their teeth effectively on their own and health issues occur.
A healthy smile is a crucial aspect of looking and feeling good whether you are 25 or 85. Decay, missing teeth, denture problems or loose dentures, and other oral health disorders can cause social isolation, low self-esteem, poor nutrition, and other issues.
Despite being at a higher risk of oral health problems, the elderly is frequently overlooked for professional dental treatment. Many older people do not obtain dental treatment because of fear. But do not worry at all; if you are in or around Alberta then it is best to visit clinic that provides senior citizen dental care in clinic in Calgary. We are equipped with everything needed to give senior patients safe, comfortable dental care.
Why is it critical to prioritize dental care for senior individuals?
Oral health substantially impacts the quality of life and general health, even in the elderly. Chronic illnesses, dry mouth, certain medications, and decay can put older adults at risk for dental problems. Here are the reasons to consider senior dental care as a priority.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition among the elderly. If not treated, gum disease can progress to the point that it causes trouble eating, tooth loss, discomfort, bleeding gums, and other health issues.
Because the early stages of gum disease do not often include symptoms, many people are unaware they have it until it is severe. This makes it critical for seniors and the elderly to get regular dental exams to diagnose and treat gum disease as early as feasible.
Also, poor oral health or gum disease-related inflammation increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Gum disease can also aggravate some cardiac conditions and increase a patient's stroke risk.
Decay
Bacterial plaque can damage tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. Because saliva fights bacteria and protects the teeth, elderly individuals with dry mouths are especially vulnerable to cavities.
Dry mouth is a common adverse effect of several drugs given to the elderly. Reduced saliva flow is caused by cancer therapies that involve radiation to the head and neck area and some disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome, and drug side effects. Many medications have the potential to induce dry mouth.
Missing Teeth
Tooth loss is a typical problem in the elderly. Tooth loss, aside from inflicting pain and diminishing self-esteem, can significantly impact diet. If an aged person cannot ingest fresh, whole food options such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, nutritional shortages and imbalances can occur.
Teeth discoloration
Tooth discoloration occurs with age because of wear and tear of the outer enamel layer and changes in dentin. A discolored tooth or teeth may indicate a more serious condition and should be evaluated by your dentist.
Denture Stomatitis
This illness, inflammation of the tissue underlying a denture, is caused by ill-fitting dentures, poor dental care, or a buildup of the fungus Candida albicans.
Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes are more likely to have oral problems such as gum disease and inflammation. This is due to high quantities of sugar in the saliva, which allows for bacterial proliferation in the mouth.
Cancer of the Oral Mucosa
Oral malignancies are more common in older people. Individuals who chew tobacco or smoke cigars, cigarettes, or pipes are at a higher risk. Because early detection is crucial, senior persons must get frequent dental check-ups.
Pneumonia
Older people with poor dental hygiene are more likely to develop bacterial pneumonia, especially if they smoke. Proper oral hygiene is crucial in reducing the incidence of bacterial pneumonia in the elderly.
How Frequently Should Older Adults See a Dentist?
At least once every six months, regular dental visits are recommended for older persons. Consistent dental assessments and care from an expert dentist team ensure that early oral health issues are detected.
One thing to know about senior dental care is that any early detection of oral health disorders, such as gum disease, is critical. This will avoid catastrophic complications such as infection or tooth loss.
Seniors' Oral Hygiene Tips
Brushing and flossing natural teeth daily is vital for maintaining good oral health. Plaque can easily accumulate on the teeth of seniors, particularly if dental hygiene is neglected, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
To maintain good dental health, it is essential for all people, regardless of age.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
Floss your teeth at least once a day.
Once or twice a day, rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
Schedule frequent cleanings and oral exams with your dentist.
According to Dental Association, antibacterial mouth rinse can help eliminate germs that cause plaque and gum disease.
Conclusion
Oral healthcare is essential throughout life, especially as we get older because gum disease and heart disease are connected. Also, pneumonia risk might be increased by poor dental hygiene. Diabetes also can be exacerbated by periodontitis. Teeth can discolor and become stained if not properly cared for. Aging-related dry mouth causes digestive problems. Gum disease can result in tooth loss. Inadequately fitting dentures can be uncomfortable and dangerous to your health. Thus, senior dental care is precious for both oral and overall health.