Proper dental care is crucial at any age, and while aging itself doesn’t inherently harm oral health, medical conditions associated with aging can complicate oral hygiene habits. Conditions such as arthritis can make tasks like brushing and flossing difficult, and cognitive health disorders can affect a senior’s ability to maintain their oral health. Whole-body health is closely linked to oral health, making senior dental care an essential priority.
Dentistry in the “golden years” is so important and here’s why:
Gum Disease and Heart Disease
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, individuals with periodontal disease (gum disease) are nearly twice as likely to also have heart disease. One study found that common oral health problems like gingivitis and cavities were as effective at predicting heart disease as traditional factors, such as cholesterol levels.
Bacteria Buildup and Pneumonia
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits keep harmful bacteria at bay. A buildup of bacteria in the mouth can make its way to the lungs, increasing the risk of developing pneumonia.
Diabetes and Gum Infections
Diabetes is common among senior citizens, and high blood sugar can lead to gum infections. Conversely, severe gum disease hampers the body’s ability to use insulin, exacerbating diabetes symptoms and leading to serious medical consequences.
Dry Mouth and Tooth Decay
Saliva protects teeth from decay and infection by controlling bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the mouth. However, many medications taken by seniors cause dry mouth as a side effect. Seniors on these medications, or undergoing cancer treatment that causes dry mouth, must be extra vigilant with their daily oral care.
Dentures and Stomatitis
Even seniors with dentures need proper oral hygiene. Poor oral care combined with ill-fitting dentures can cause stomatitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue. This uncomfortable condition can affect a senior’s eating habits and overall nutrition, but regular dental check-ups ensure dentures fit properly and good oral hygiene is observed.
Tips for Managing Senior Oral Care
Even if your senior loved one can manage brushing and flossing on their own, there are additional ways to ensure proper oral hygiene:
- Set reminders and schedule dental cleanings.
- Offer transportation to the dentist.
- Encourage them to talk to their doctor if medications cause dry mouth.
- Provide an electric toothbrush.
- Remind them to rinse with mouthwash once or twice a day and clean their dentures daily to prevent bacteria buildup.
Looking for a Dentist for Elderly Patients?
At Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi, we are committed to the oral health of patients of all ages. If you or a senior loved one need a specific dental procedure, dentures, dental implants, or regular checkups, contact us today. We value every patient and strive to help you and your loved ones maintain optimal oral health.
About Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi
Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi provides comprehensive dental care to the people of Kern County in a friendly and comfortable environment. Under the ownership of Dr. Jose David Sanchez, Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi focuses on the placement of dental implants, tooth restoration, IV sedation and dental anesthesia, making it among the most experienced dental offices in Tehachapi. Dr. Sanchez offers same day dental implant surgery for Kern County residents. He is a member of several prestigious dental organizations, including Fellow of Misch International Implant Institute, Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Fellow of Global Dental Implant Academy, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and California Dental Society of Anesthesiology. Dr. Sanchez continues to take hundreds of hours of continuing education courses yearly and stays up to date with the latest technology. This additional training, along with his 46 years of experience, makes Jose David Sanchez, D.D.S. one of the best dentists in Tehachapi.
For more information, contact Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi at DentistTehachapi.com or call (661) 822-3727.
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