Our senior population represents a particularly vulnerable demographic, susceptible to a myriad of alternating and dangerous health challenges that manifest throughout their lifespans. Among these afflictions, one that should get more consideration is oral health.
It is important to recognize that the state of one’s oral health influences other bodily systems, and poor oral health often conceals deeper underlying health issues.
So, what is the solution? How can seniors get the best dental care?
A substantial number of seniors live in pain with suboptimal dental health. Common oral health challenges seniors face include tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
In order to foster an enhanced quality of life for our senior citizens, it should be at the top of their regimen to incorporate regular dental check-ups, a flossing routine, the maintenance of sound mental and physical health, using an electric toothbrush, and limiting acidic food consumption.
It is never too late to seek proper dental care. Pain is never worth suffering if help is right around the corner. This article will provide an in-depth overview of what dental problems to look out for as a senior and how to solve them effectively.
Common Oral Health Problems That Seniors Face
We rely on our mouths for a lot of things—eating, conversing, singing, and laughing. Bad oral health can make these things more difficult. These issues often become more pronounced and prevalent for seniors as their vulnerability to sickness increases.
Frequently, the consequences of past behaviors, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, coupled with inadequate dental hygiene practices, begin to manifest in the form of dental decay, gum disease, dry mouth (xerostomia), and gravest of all, oral cancer.
The Interconnection Between Oral Health and Mental Health
An interconnection exists between oral health and mental health. One study found that people who are depressed experience less motivation to take care of their teeth. As individuals age, their faculties tend to wane, potentially leading to a diminished sense of purpose.
Also, they may resort to cost-saving measures, such as forgoing essential medical visits, entangling them in a potentially dangerous situation.
Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Teeth and Gums in Seniors
Fortunately, there exist effective strategies to stave off the onset of dental ailments and infirmity. One of the easiest ones is the investment in an electric toothbrush. These high-powered instruments are adept at reaching and cleaning even the most inaccessible dental crevices, equipped with built-in timers to ensure optimal brushing time.
Seniors should acknowledge the heightened importance of flossing in their advanced years. For those adverse to traditional flossing, alternatives such as floss picks exist for their convenience. Limit mouthwash to once a day at night so that it doesn’t dry out your saliva.
Finding a trustworthy dentist for all your dental procedures should be next on the list. Unfortunately, Medicare does not have a dental program, so these costs are going to be out-of-pocket expenses. If some big oral surgery needs to happen, talk to your dentist, they probably have a payment plan or some sort of financing available. Some dentists even offer their own membership plans that help cover costs.
Finding Dental Care You Can Trust
Dental care for seniors, though seemingly straightforward, requires a lot of due diligence and planning. Some seniors may in fact have a phobia of dentists due to past trauma, but it remains essential so that their families can keep them around for longer. Encourage the elderly in your family to get their dental checkup as soon as possible. You may catch something before it becomes nearly impossible to treat.
Sedki Dentistry is a full service dental clinic in Commerce Twp that addresses the dental health needs and concerns for all age groups including seniors. Our dental team is compassionate and aims to make each patient feel at ease and comfortable about their dental care.
Offering an array of dental services including general dentistry such as cleanings and fillings to cosmetic dentistry, dental treatments and gum rejuvenation, we are an ideal choice for all your dental needs. Call for a Free Consultation!