Understanding Dental Problems – Tips for Good Oral Hygiene
As you get older, you are often advised to follow a set of rules for a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, having a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, getting enough sleep, and having an active social life. People tend to forget that advancing age can also lead to many dental problems. Your body becomes more vulnerable as you age, causing tooth decay, infections, and gum diseases that can impact your overall health. This is the reason why the experts in our senior community believe oral health care is crucial to lead a better life.
Here are a few dental problems that are common in your senior years of life:
- Darkened or Discolored Teeth
Consuming beverages and foods that cause stains leads to darkened teeth. Thinning of the outer layer of teeth known as enamel causes the yellower dentin to show through, often leading to this problem. - Dry Mouth
The reduced flow of saliva causes dry mouth. It can be due to disease, a side effect of medications and other treatments such as radiation. - Reduced Sense of Taste
In addition to advancing age, medications, diseases, and dentures can also impair your sense of taste. - Root Decay, Gum Disease, and Tooth Loss
While root decay is caused due to exposure to decay-causing acids, gum disease is the result of plaque, food particles left in the mouth, an unhealthy diet, and diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Gum disease and decay often lead to loss of teeth. - Uneven Jaw Bone
When a missing tooth is not replaced, it allows the rest of the teeth to shift into open spaces, leading to an uneven jaw structure.
Oral Hygiene for Seniors
To maintain good dental health, it is crucial to adhere to the following:
- Brush your teeth twice daily
- Use a toothpaste containing fluoride
- Floss regularly, at least once every day
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash after having a meal
- Drink fluoridated water
- Avoid cigarettes and tobacco and limit alcohol consumption
- Chew sugarless gum to keep your mouth moist
- Visit your dentist regularly even if you wear dentures
- Schedule a cleaning and an oral exam periodically
A Caregiver’s Responsibility
Sometimes it may become difficult for seniors to look after their oral health. It is important for those who care for them to educate them about the importance of oral health care. In addition to this, the caregivers must also help them with brushing and flossing and ensure that they consult a dentist regularly.
Holiday Retirement Provides Excellent Health Care for Seniors
If you are looking for a senior living community in West Hartford, Holiday Retirement provides excellent senior homes with great facilities. We strive to enrich our residents physically and emotionally through love and care while providing them with a homey environment.
We offer the following:
- Spacious and well-maintained units
- Delicious and nutritious meals with consideration for special dietary requirements
- Trained, friendly staff for assistance
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Regular social activities and fun events
To learn more about our affordable services, you may reach out to us by calling 860-233-8208. You could also view our video gallery for more information about our facility in West Hartford.