While teeth are important to maintain no matter what age a person is, it's rather quite important to follow a healthy dental routine throughout the latter parts of life. When people begin to age, their teeth are more prone to decay or erosion. With that being said, it’s important for seniors to follow a strict dental routine, both at home and by visiting their dentist on a regular basis.
Maintaining a healthy dental routine can be hard enough as is, but ensuring that seniors follow a strict dental routine too, can be even more difficult. The tips listed below are easy ways for seniors to manage a good oral hygiene.
As people age, their entire bodies become more prone to infections and diseases. It’s important that seniors pay close attention to their teeth. Brushing after every meal that they eat should be worked into their daily routine. This ensures that there are no leftover food particles on or around their teeth. Because the elderly are more prone to disease and infections, it’s crucial for them to keep their teeth clean constantly. Brushing after each meal will ensure that the teeth stay clean throughout the day, avoiding any chance for bacteria to form and grow.
Although flossing might seem obvious, it can definitely get overlooked for seniors because it can be a tedious task. Some may find it easier to just skip flossing so that they can move on with their day. Others may avoid flossing regularly because it can be hard to do at such ages. However, flossing daily is a vital step in maintaining good oral hygiene. This allows for any plaque or food particles to be cleared out from in between teeth. Anything leftover that is lodged between teeth may have an effect on the gum lining. This could lead to irritation or inflammation which would then cause discomfort. If flossing with traditional floss seems to be too difficult then invest in the hand held flossers or even a water flosser to still ensure proper teeth cleaning.
Making regular visits to the dentist is very important once someone hits their older years. Because the elderly are aging, their teeth and gums are more prone to disease or infection. Being seen by a professional regularly will ensure that any infections or diseases are being avoided. Dentists are trained to spot any potential issues within the mouth. They can then treat anything alarming and help assist in the best ways to maintain a good oral hygiene.
The use of mouthwash can be beneficial to people of all ages, but it is especially important for seniors to thoroughly rinse their mouths with this antiseptic. As stated before, seniors are more prone to infections or diseases, but with the regular use of mouthwash, bacteria will be destroyed often ensuring that infections don’t form.
Diseases and infections often form in the elderly’s teeth because their bodies are weakened due to their age, this also applies to the teeth and gums. Over time, the teeth and gums will be worn down from decay or erosion. Each day, it’s important for seniors to inspect their mouth for any signs of oral cancer or other problems such as gum diseases. Staying aware of the condition of the mouth will aid in getting the correct treatment so that the problems do not manifest.
While maintaining good oral hygiene is important for everyone, it’s especially crucial for the elderly to be aware of their teeth and gums. Keeping a healthy dental routine will ensure that diseases and infections don’t form.
If you still have questions on the best way to care for your teeth, call us today. We are always glad to answer any concerns that may arise.
Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.
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