As you know, seniors often face dental problems due to many reasons. Poor oral hygiene, weakened teeth, unhealthy habits and many other factors promote different kinds of dental issues like tooth decay, tooth loss and gum diseases in the elderly people. However, certain necessary dental care tips given hereunder help to maintain the oral hygiene in seniors.
Brushing and flossing daily is very much important. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. Special electrical toothbrushes are even available for easy cleaning and handling. They even help to clean the areas that are hard-to-reach in the mouth. Certain dental floss holders can be used to enable easy flossing. A soft cloth or a gauge can also be used to remove debris from the teeth.
- Balanced diet with limited snacks containing sugars and starches helps to maintain good oral health.
- Frequently check for any warning signs such as gum swelling, tooth sensitivity, pain, teeth grinding, bumps (oral cancer), mouth sores, loose teeth and difficulty in chewing, thirst, or swallowing. Visit the dentist immediately if any of these signs are found.
- Prefer drinking fluoridated water in order to protect from cavities.
- Regular dental visits for check-up and cleaning are compulsory.
- Side effects of medications is one of the causes of dental problems in the elderly. So, when consulting a dentist, inform the medications you are using and ask for any changes in the medications.
- Avoid unhealthy habits like drinking, smoking and substance abuse.
- Maintain the dentures properly. Brush and clean the full or partial dentures thoroughly with a soft toothbrush each night. They should even be brushed inside and outside, and then rinsed with cool water. Other natural teeth and gums should be brushed properly. Consult a dentist to get any changes in dentures fit.
These are the simple, yet important tips to be followed by the seniors to maintain a good oral health.