Dental health can affect overall health. It is more than cosmetic in nature and involves the entire mouth, not just the teeth. Even seniors who wear full dentures need to practice good dental health. It can be difficult for seniors to maintain dental health at times but helping them manage their oral care is vitally important.
9 Reasons Dental Health Matters:
- Heart disease can be linked to gum disease
- Poor oral hygeine can contribute to pneumonia
- Peeriodontitis can exacerbate diabetes
- Teeth darken without proper care
- Gum disease can lead to tooth loss
- Dry mouth poses digestive issues
- Root decay can be painful
- Teeth can move if others are lost and not replaced
- Ill-fitting dentures can be painful and unhealthy (A Place for Mom)
Challenges:
People of all ages are at risk for dental issues. Decreased mobility, impaired memory, side effects of medications, and medical conditions that affect oral health can all lead to poor oral hygiene among seniors. Special attention should be given to dental health in seniors with diseases such as liver disease, diabetes, arthritis, anemia, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders. (A Place for Mom)
- Dry Mouth
- Dry mouth occurs when not enough saliva is produced and affects acid levels in the mouth. This can negatively affect swallowing, digestion, teeth, and gums. Seniors are more prone to this condition, especially since some medications (more than 500) list dry mouth as a side effect. Caregivers can help seniors by checking to see if this is a listed side effect and managing dry mouth appropriately. (Mouth Healthy)
- Root and Coronal Caries
- Dental decay can cause cavities (caries). This can affect the roots of the teeth and jawbone as well if they are allowed to progress deep enough. Caries can be caused by a variety of problems such as poor oral hygiene, poor diet, dry mouth, and more.
- Periodontitis
- Periodontitis is an infection of the gums and causes pain and inflammation. This is often due to poor oral hygiene leading to a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. (American Dental Association)
Caregiving:
Caregivers can help promote good oral health in a variety of ways. Helping seniors maintain good oral health can help them keep their natural teeth longer and be able to enjoy normal diets.
- Help with brushing and flossing
- Set minders to brush or floss
- Encourage seniors to use mouthwash
- Schedule regular dental cleanings
- Offer transportation to the dentist
- Urge seniors to talk to their doctor if experiencing dry mouth, especially if medications are causing this.
- Help care for dentures and gums.
(Clear Care Monthly)