Dental care for seniors requires special considerations, as they are more likely to suffer from a host of oral health issues due to their age, financial constraint, or inability to carry out adequate dental hygiene.
In many cases, seniors believe that dental care is no longer necessary, especially if they’re using full/partial dentures or implants.
However, oral healthcare is important throughout life, and especially as we age, because:
- Gum disease can be linked to heart disease
- Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of pneumonia
- Periodontitis can exacerbate diabetes
- Without proper care, teeth can darken and become stained
- Dry mouth, that comes with aging, poses digestive issues.
- Gum disease can lead to tooth loss
- Teeth can shift and move if missing teeth aren’t replaced
- Ill-fitting dentures can be painful and a danger to your health
Affordable and Quality Senior Dental Care in Calgary
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we provide comprehensive dental care to ensure seniors keep their natural teeth longer and maintain their oral health. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life, and excellent dental health, for as long as possible.
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Top Reasons Why Senior Dental Care is So Important
Senior dental care is about more than just cosmetics. Because oral health affects overall health, it’s extremely crucial for older adults to take good care of their teeth, mouth, and gums.
While people of all ages are at risk of dental issues such as cavities, there are certain conditions that seniors are more susceptible to, including:
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Dry Mouth: This is when the mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, changing the acid levels in the mouth. This can affect swallowing, digestion, as well as the teeth and gums negatively. Seniors are particularly prone to this condition, especially if they are on certain medications.
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Tooth and Root Decay. Seniors are not only at risk of tooth decay, but this decay can even affect the roots of the tooth and the jawbone. This is often caused by poor oral hygiene, a poor diet, or dry mouth.
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Periodontitis. Periodontitis is gum infection, that is often due to poor oral hygiene or a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. It can cause inflammation, pain, and even tooth loss.
Dental Hygiene Tips For Seniors
Although seniors are at a higher risk of developing certain oral conditions, the good news is that many of these dental health concerns are easily prevented and solved with the right dental care.
To help you protect your mouth, teeth, and gums as you age, here are some simple tips to follow:
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Brush twice daily, floss at least once a day, and rinse with mouthwash as instructed by your dentist, to maintain dental hygiene.
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Consider using an electric toothbrush that will help you clean your teeth more effectively and clean the harder-to-reach parts of the mouth.
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Know the warning signs that indicate you may have a problem with your teeth or gums, such as:
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Tooth sensitivity
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Grinding
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Pain
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Mouth sore
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Loose teeth
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Jaw popping
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Difficulty swallowing, eating or quenching your thirst
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Visit your dentist regularly for checkups
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Maintain and take care of all dental appliances such as bridges or dentures.
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Talk to your dentist about any medications you’re taking, or any changes in your medication.
When Oral Care Becomes Difficult: How Caregivers Can Help
Most dental health problems seniors face can be prevented with the right care. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why elderly patients may not be able to maintain their oral health effectively.
This can include:
- Decreased mobility
- Impaired memory
- Side effects of medication
- Medical conditions that affect dental health
The best way to protect their teeth in such cases is by having a caregiver who can help in various ways.
Such individuals might:
- Help with brushing and flossing.
- Encourage senior patients to brush/floss and use mouthwash.
- Schedule and take elderly patients for their regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Offer transportation to the dentist
Such simple strategies go a long way in helping seniors avoid dental health problems, allowing patients to keep their natural teeth for longer and enjoy regular diets, instead of having to switch to soft foods due to tooth loss or decay.
Call Today
To find out more about our comprehensive senior dental care services, and how our team can help you maintain healthy and beautiful teeth as you age, contact our Calgary dental clinic today at 403-248-2066 or fill in our online contact form.
