As people age, their risk of developing chronic diseases increases. This is also true for dental problems. Poor oral health can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions. Read on to learn how dental health affects the overall health of the elderly.
Reasons Why Seniors Are More susceptible to Dental Issues
There are a few reasons why seniors are more susceptible to dental issues. Here’s why:
1. Dry mouth
As we age, our salivary glands produce less saliva. This can result in a condition called xerostomia or dry mouth. A dry mouth can make it difficult to eat and speak and increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
2. Poor oral hygiene
Many seniors cannot brush their teeth properly due to physical limitations. This can result in plaque buildup and an increased risk of dental problems. Also, certain conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, can make it difficult for seniors to maintain good oral hygiene. Sometimes, this can lead to dental emergencies.
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3. Illnesses and medications
Certain conditions and medications can cause tooth decay and gum disease. For example, cancer treatments such as radiation therapy can damage the saliva glands, leading to a dry mouth. Also, some medications can cause dry mouth or make it difficult to brush your teeth properly. These include antihistamines, decongestants, and painkillers.
4. Ill-fitting dentures
Ill-fitting dentures can cause some problems for seniors, including gum disease, mouth sores, and difficulty eating. If you or your loved one wears artificial teeth, be sure to have them checked regularly to ensure they fit properly.
Things You Can Do to Maintain Good Dental Health
You can do a few things to help maintain good dental health for seniors. Here are some tips:
1. Encourage regular dental visits.
Seniors need to see their dentist regularly, even if they don’t have any obvious dental problems. This helps catch any problems early and prevents them from becoming more serious. This also allows dentists to recommend other necessary courses of treatment, like teeth cleaning, which you can see more here.
2. Make sure dentures fit properly.
As mentioned earlier, ill-fitting dentures can cause several problems for seniors. Be sure to check your loved one’s dentures regularly to ensure they still fit properly.
3. Practice good oral hygiene.
Good oral hygiene is vital for everyone, but it’s especially important for seniors. Be sure to help your loved one brush their teeth properly daily, and encourage them to floss regularly. Consider using an electric toothbrush so it will be easier for seniors.
4. Watch for signs of dental problems.
A few signs that may indicate a dental problem include pain, redness, or swelling in the mouth. If you observe these signs, contact a dentist right away. This is the significance of consulting with a geriatric dentist who focuses on seniors’ oral health. Visit this page to learn more about what you need to know regarding geriatric dentistry.
5. Consider quitting smoking.
Smoking is one of the major risk factors for many oral problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. If you or your loved one consumes tobacco products, quitting is the best way to protect your dental health. A few resources are available to help smokers quit, so you can take advantage of them.
6. Improve your diet.
A diet high in fruits and vegetables is good for overall health, including dental health. Fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay by providing the mouth with essential nutrients. In addition, limit sugary and acidic foods, as these can increase the risk of tooth decay.
7. Drink plenty of water.
Drinking plenty of water is also good for overall health, as well as your teeth and gums. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to dental problems. Encourage your loved one to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Dental health is vital for every age, but it especially benefits the elderly. The good news is there are several ways to reduce the risk of dental concerns due to aging. Consider the tips above to help maintain good dental health for seniors.