Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for older adults. Oral health directly affects quality of life and the ability to eat and enjoy food. Regular dental care can help prevent tooth decay, tooth loss, and periodontal disease, as well as identify oral cancer in its early stages.
Why might seniors forego dental care?
When people retire, they often lose their dental insurance benefits. Regular Medicare does not cover dental care, so patients must pay out of pocket unless they purchase dental insurance or have a Medicare Advantage Plan that covers dental. Many seniors simply cannot afford the cost. Other seniors may have limited mobility and a lack of transportation to appointments. Those with failing memories may forget about making an appointment until they experience a dental problem. Some people just have general anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist.
Guidelines for good oral health are the same for seniors as other age groups:
· Brush twice a day.
· Use a fluoride toothpaste.
· Floss daily or use a special dental pick to clean between the teeth.
· Have a dental checkup twice a year.
The following are some of the problems that can result from neglected oral health:
Tooth Decay
Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth converting sugary foods and carbohydrates into acid and plaque, which dissolves tooth enamel. Dry mouth is a contributing factor for tooth decay. Unfortunately, dry mouth is a side effect of many medications commonly taken by seniors.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in the elderly. When gum disease is not treated, the gums start to pull away from the teeth and form deep pockets that allow food particles and plaque to collect. Receding gums may bleed easily. Periodontal disease also causes bad breath. Advanced gum disease can destroy bone.
Links to Other Health Conditions
Infections in the mouth have been linked to other health problems including lung infections, such as pneumonia, and heart disease. Good oral health can reduce the risk of developing other health conditions.
How Family Members Can Help
Family members have the opportunity to play an important role in ensuring their older loved ones get the dental care they need. Some seniors may need a reminder about scheduling an appointment, or it may be helpful for someone to book an appointment for them. Others may need transportation to the appointment or someone to accompany them to their visit.
Renaissance Villages can alleviate transportation worries for residents and their families. We offer transportation to and from medical and dental appointments so that our residents never have to miss their scheduled procedures. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our residential living offerings.
