WHY SHOULD THE ELDERLY CONTINUE CARING FOR THEIR DENTAL HEALTH
By Real Smile
07/05/2019
Time and age are two factors that we are unable to stop or retard, but even as we age, we can maintain good oral health and not let fall by the wayside. It is a terrible misconception that losing our teeth at old age is inevitable; your permanent set of teeth is built to last a lifetime with proper care. Many things may be lost to age, but do not lost your dental health to laziness or convenience. We ingest all our food through our mouth and proper oral hygiene will ensure that you do not swallow the unnecessary bacteria when eating. Particularly in nursing homes and caregiving situations, caregivers and staff should assist the elderly to maintain their basic oral health as the elderly might be unable to care for it. Maintaining good oral health is important as it is linked to many of our physical health conditions.
DIABETESPeriodontitis, a form of severe gum disease, prevents the body from using insulin. Gum infection may occur when there is high blood sugar in the body.
PNEUMONIAElderly are more susceptible to pneumonia when breathing in droplets of the bacterial from the mouth to the lungs. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs which may eventually spread to the bloodstream and if left untreated, the complications of pneumonia can be life-threatening.
HEART DISEASEResearch has proven the existential connection between gum disease and heart disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a powerful defense against stroke, heart attack and other possible heart disease. A study showed that the presence of cavities, missing teeth and gingivitis is close to predicted heart disease as cholesterol levels.
GUM DISEASEGum disease takes place due to poor oral habits such as, not brushing adequately causing plaque and food build up in our teeth, unhealthy diets, poor fitting bridges and dentures, and the use of tobacco products. Gum disease instigates tooth loss and can have dire consequences on the overall health.
ROOT DECAYRoot decay is one of the most common dental issue found in our ageing population. As the roots become exposed and gum tissue recedes from the tooth, the root does not receive sufficient enamel protection causing it to be prone to decay.
HOW TO IMPROVE SENIOR DENTAL CAREThere are more than brushing and flossing our teeth to maintaining dental care. Some expert tips on having good dental health includes:
DIABETESPeriodontitis, a form of severe gum disease, prevents the body from using insulin. Gum infection may occur when there is high blood sugar in the body.
PNEUMONIAElderly are more susceptible to pneumonia when breathing in droplets of the bacterial from the mouth to the lungs. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs which may eventually spread to the bloodstream and if left untreated, the complications of pneumonia can be life-threatening.
HEART DISEASEResearch has proven the existential connection between gum disease and heart disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a powerful defense against stroke, heart attack and other possible heart disease. A study showed that the presence of cavities, missing teeth and gingivitis is close to predicted heart disease as cholesterol levels.
GUM DISEASEGum disease takes place due to poor oral habits such as, not brushing adequately causing plaque and food build up in our teeth, unhealthy diets, poor fitting bridges and dentures, and the use of tobacco products. Gum disease instigates tooth loss and can have dire consequences on the overall health.
ROOT DECAYRoot decay is one of the most common dental issue found in our ageing population. As the roots become exposed and gum tissue recedes from the tooth, the root does not receive sufficient enamel protection causing it to be prone to decay.
HOW TO IMPROVE SENIOR DENTAL CAREThere are more than brushing and flossing our teeth to maintaining dental care. Some expert tips on having good dental health includes:
- Rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash daily
- Drink tap water as it contains fluoride which helps to prevent tooth decay
- Clean your dentures daily
- Eat a well-balanced and healthy diet that includes high fiber food
- Avoid drinking too much soft drinks
- Quit smoking as it increases your risk for gum disease, cancer, tooth loss and tooth decay
- Visit your dentist regularly every 6 months for thorough check and cleaning
About This Author
Real Smile Dental is a top Bergen County NJ dental practice servicing Cliffside Park; Fort Lee, Edgewater and nearby areas. We perform dental treatments such as teeth whitening, root canals, cosmetic dentistry, dental restoration, orthodontics & more.Dr. Leonid Rubinov DDS PhDDr. Leonid Rubinov …