From kids to seniors, oral care is important to do at home. While many people develop good dental habits, it can be harder to keep them up with age. In fact, you might notice that older adults in your life aren’t as consistent as they used to be. Whether from mobility limitations, medication side effects, or any other reason, here are tips to help your loved ones have a stronger smile.
Why Is Oral Care Important for Older Adults?
Before diving into what you can do, it’s important to understand what oral health risks older adults face. These are a few things to be aware of:
- Cavities: While common in all age groups, gum recession can expose tooth roots, which are more susceptible to decay.
- Gum Disease: The soft tissues in the mouth can become infected. In fact, over half of those older than 65 struggle with some form of it. It’s also been linked to other chronic conditions, like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
- Dry Mouth: Medications can impact saliva flow. The bacteria in the mouth can linger longer and attack the teeth and gums, leading to dental problems and bad breath.
How Can I Encourage Proper Oral Care for Older Adults?
If older adults in your life need help taking care of their smiles, the good news is there are simple tips you can use to help them be more consistent. Here are a few to try:
- Get them an electric toothbrush and water flosser, as they can be easier to hold while being just as effective as their manual counterparts.
- Ensure your loved one rinses with antibacterial mouthwash after their routine; that way, they get as much bacteria in their mouth as possible.
- Check their medications to see if dry mouth is a side effect. If so, then make sure they drink plenty of water. Depending on how severe it is, you may talk to their physician about what can be done to lessen this complication.
In the end, don’t forget your loved one has visits with their dentist. Regular checkups and cleanings go a long way in preventing oral health issues. If anything is worrying, it can be handled before it’s a bigger problem. That way, senior smiles stay strong no matter what.
About the Author
Dr. Quintarias Lester, or Dr. Q, earned his dental degree from the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville. He is dedicated to helping patients of all ages protect their teeth and gums. Whether kids or older adults, he tailors treatments per patient to give them to ensure their grin is worry-free. If you or your loved one is due for their next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Q’s office at 651-488-2541.