Among the many challenges that seniors face when it comes to their welfare, oral health can be one of the most difficult to maintain. There are a variety of factors that come into play when proper oral care is not being followed and it can lead to significant health concerns that can have an effect on their physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the most common issues that seniors face with respect to oral hygiene:
Cavities and Tooth Loss
As we age, we are at a higher risk of getting cavities than even young children. The loss of teeth is also a much greater concern for those age 65 and over. That’s why it’s so important to protect those teeth you still have by avoiding sugary foods and cleaning them regularly. Flossing and rinsing with a mild mouthwash can also help fight back against cavities and tooth loss.
Gum Disease
The condition of your mouth has a direct correlation with your overall health. If your oral health is poor that can lead to other medical issues from heart disease to infections. The truth is many seniors are currently suffering from some form of gum disease yet they feel that they are helpless to do much of anything about it. Routine brushing, flossing, and regular checkups with your dentist are all effective ways to battle against gum disease and keep the rest of you healthy at the same time.
Discolored Teeth
The body starts to break down as we get older, that includes the enamel on your teeth. When this occurs, that can lead to discoloration of the teeth and the best way to prevent this from happening is by avoiding foods and beverages that can stain teeth. Smoking is a very bad habit that isn’t healthy for you and it can also stain your teeth.
Denture Maintenance
If you currently wear dentures it’s important to care for them as if they were real teeth. Poor denture care can result in many oral health issues from bad breath to plaque build up beneath the denture appliance. Ill-fitting dentures may also lead to oral injury or irritation and these can turn into bigger problems if left unchecked. That’s why it is so important that any denture work must be carefully cleaned and properly fit inside the mouth. The longer the problem remains, the worse it can become later on down the line.
