The expected increase in the geriatric population calls for a national focus on senior health. Bad oral health can lead to periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease. This disease leads to an infection and is associated with coronary heart disease and hypertension. As stated by the American Heart Association, gum disease also worsens blood pressure and hinders hypertension medication. To prevent these severe cardiovascular complications, it is crucial to focus on healthyoral hygiene. Focusing on oral health among the elderly population can help prevent complications as a side effect of medications, diet, or habits. Oral health is important in preventing tooth decay, bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
Good oral health hygiene helps increase confidence in looks and helps seniors enjoy their food more. Toothaches, gum disease, and tooth loss are not pleasant experiences.
Some tips to help encourage better oral health hygiene and care are:
● Brushing twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
● Flossing daily
● If using dentures, properly clean the dentures daily with a denture cleansing solution
● Regular dental check-ups
● Lessen the consumption of sugars in the diet
● Limit alcoholic beverages
● Refrain from using tobacco products and smoking
One may be attending regular dental checkups with a family member with dementia. In that case, you may ask the dentist and staff to accommodate their tone and verbal communication to understand the care they are receiving at the dental checkup. Further tips to limit the distractions and complications related to oral health checkups include clear instructions and encourage family members to use an electric toothbrush if they experience limited mobility.
There are several reasons for the lack of oral health. Among the many reasons for lack of oral health care includes lack of coverage, lack of transportation, memory loss, cognitive impairments, disability, and physical impairments. For patients who cannot reach a dental office for treatments and routine checkups there are resources such as In House Dental Care. This is a dental care resource that provides home visits for patients who cannot leave home for dental care. In House Dental Care provides care services in Orange County, San Diego County, Riverside County, Ventura County, San Bernardino County, and Los Angeles County. Click on the county you reside in for further information about this resource.
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By Malalai Shinwari
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Health Science, Community Health Education Student at California State University Long Beach
