Dental care for older adults is a priority to maintain good oral health, which is closely related to general health. In old age, the probabilities of the appearance of different diseases such as periodontal disease or caries increase, and are favoured by the side effects on the mouth of the use of dental prostheses or the taking of certain medications.
Consequences of poor oral hygiene in older adults
Gum pain causing difficulty in eating
Dry mouth, affecting speech and proper
Nutrition.
Aesthetic problems affecting the self-
Esteem of the elderly
Negatively influence general health,
Affecting cardiovascular diseases,
Diabetes, respiratory or gastrointestinal
Infections
Tips for oral health care in later life
1) Ensuring good oral hygiene: It is essential to brush your teeth after every meal and before going to bed at night. It is recommended to use toothpaste with fluoride and a soft toothbrush that does not damage the enamel and gums. The use of dental floss and mouthwashes is also recommended. Do not forget to brush the tongue at the end
2) Oral hygiene products to ensure complete protection
3) Preventing dry mouth: At the first signs of dry mouth, it is important to drink plenty of water. The simple gesture of hydrating properly increases saliva production considerably. When the xerostomia or dry mouth is due to a major health problem or medication, use the specified mouthwashes and toothpastes to combat it.
4) Cleaning and maintenance of dental prostheses : Maintenance of the dentures can be done by using special brushes and cleaning products which remove dirt and grime and prevent abrasion and wear. Sometimes prostheses can erode the mucosa of the gums. If lesions appear, prosthesis should be checked or made again.
5) Visiting the dentist regularly: in addition to dental care at home older adults should continue to visit their dentist regularly. A dental check-up by a professional is the best way to detect any health problems early as to receive advice on the guidelines to follow in the maintenance of oral hygiene.
Other healthy habits for older adults
To further enhance dental care in older adults, there are other habits that can be instilled in daily life:
1) Preventing dry mouth by stimulating salivation by taking sugar-free sweets or eating hard foods.
2) Do not eat sticky foods that may damage the teeth or the prosthesis.
3)Avoid sweet foods as much as possible especially before going to bed.
4)Limit or stop the use of tobacco and alcohol.
5)Moisturise lips constantly with petroleum jelly or sunscreen cocoa
6)Treat any mouth sores or canker sores that appear to prevent the lesion from worsening.
7)Seeing a doctor or dentist regularly to keep your oral health in check.
Dental care for older adults is synonymous with maintaining general health. You should never let your guard down at any time of life in order to enjoy a healthy and beautiful mouth.
