It is a common misconception that seniors will always have problems with their teeth. You can still have your own teeth and a healthy mouth at all ages. Here are tips from Alpha Dental Center about how seniors should care for their teeth.
Maintain Daily Brushing and Flossing
It is just as important to brush and floss every day as a senior as it was when you were younger. Remember that dental implants and capped teeth still can get cavities. Brushing and flossing help remove bacteria that cause cavities. If brushing and flossing have become painful, ask your dental hygienist or General Dentistry in North Dartmouth MA professional for alternatives for sensitive teeth and gums.
Clean Dentures Daily
If you wear dentures or care for someone who wears dentures, be sure to remove and clean the dentures every day. Do not use toothpaste. Use only cleaners made for dentures. Only wear dentures 20 out of every 24 hours. The four-hour rest helps keeps the mouth healthy.
Twice-Yearly Checkups
Seniors need to see their dentists at least once every six months for professional cleanings in between the teeth and to make sure that your teeth do not have chips or cracks. Many people, including seniors, do not have pain even when a tooth has minor damage. Getting this damage fixed now can avoid lots of pain and dental emergencies later. Even seniors in senior living communities need General Dentistry in North Dartmouth MA and elsewhere.
Show the Dentist Your Medicine List
The American Dental Association estimate that 500 medications, especially those for Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, high cholesterol and some painkillers, can cause dry mouth which leads to cavities and tooth loss. Talk to your dentist about switching medications or about how to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Drink more water, avoid caffeine, stop smoking and get a humidifier to help with dry mouth.
There are many things seniors and their caregivers can do to make sure their teeth and mouths are healthy all through their lives. Contact Alpha Dental Center for more information on senior dental care if you have questions that have not been answered here.
