Dental care for the Elderly
No matter how old you are dental hygiene is something that you must make sure is upheld. If you give your teeth proper care to prevent tooth decay and the spread of bacteria, then this will go a long way to making sure you do not lose any teeth. Though you are likely to lose your hearing somewhat as you age, due to natural processes in the body, there is no reason why you should stand to lose your teeth once you reach a certain age. Through good dental care and diet your teeth can be maintained.
Dental problems elderly people need to consider
Even though there is no reason why you should lose your teeth related to age there are certain things you should look out for:
- Shrinking gums - Your gums will shrink somewhat as you age and this may lead to some sensitivity from cold or hot beverages. There are several mouthwashes available that can help with sensitive teeth and gums, and your dentist or hygienist will be able to advise you on brushing techniques in order to sufficiently clean your gums.
- Dexterity - As you age your level of movement becomes more strained and this in turn may make it more difficult to clean your teeth. Your dentist will be able to give you advice on the best method to keep your teeth and gums in good condition.
- Failing eyesight - It may become more difficult to clean your teeth if your eyesight worsens. However, mirrors that magnify what you see are attainable in such cases and are best used with a bright light.
- Dentures and other dental apparatus - If, for any reason, you have been given dentures, partial dentures or implants, then you will need to carry out strict cleaning procedures. You will be advised on such matters by your dentist, who will also be able to offer further advice should your level of movement be limited. Worsening of eyesight can also be taken into account.
- Dry mouth - Dry mouth can become a problem for elderly people, but mainly for those who are required to use medication. This is due to some medication having the adverse affect of causing the saliva glands to create less saliva. Artificial saliva is one option if such an occurrence happens.
Do elderly people need to care for their teeth more than others?
No matter what age you are you need to make sure that your teeth are given proper dental care. Whether you are sixty or sixteen years old it does not matter. Dental hygiene is of utmost importance if your teeth are to stand the test of time. The only extra dental care elderly people are more likely to need to think about are dentures and other such dental apparatus. This will only be the case if your teeth have not been given sufficient care over the years.
Gum disease and tooth decay
If you fail to give your teeth good dental care during your life then the end results will soon catch up with you. Such unwanted consequences will typically fall into two categories:
- Gum disease - If plaque, a form of bacteria, is allowed to build up around the teeth and gums then this can lead to gum disease. This is a condition which is often painless and therefore goes undiagnosed. Symptoms you should look out for include bleeding gums, loose teeth or bad breath. The symptoms may differ for some people.
- Tooth decay- Plaque and bacteria can also cause the teeth to decay, which can cause them to become sensitive and break up. You should limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods to lessen the chance of tooth decay.
Maintain good dental health
The key to having good strong teeth into your later years is through daily cleaning of your teeth and a good diet. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, rinse your mouth with mouthwash and use floss. You should also make sure that you visit your dentist on a regular basis. Best Dental Hygiene Advice offers tips and advice on several ways to keep your teeth in good working order, including guidance on mouthwash, dentures and electronic toothbrushes. However, the advice of your dentist should be given priority.
