Seniors are more prone to oral health issues due to their age, which may be a result of financial constraints or not being able to individually care for themselves. Apart from tooth loss seniors may suffer from tooth sensitivity and discoloration resulting from a lack of enough enamel in the teeth.
They are also more prone to various periodontal diseases or gum disease as a result of poor oral hygiene, poor diet, and smoking of tobacco. Good senior dental care is beneficial for them to prevent them from suffering from oral health problems.
Older adults with medical conditions such as bacteria and pneumonia are at a higher risk of developing periodontal diseases. That is when one suffers from diabetes the high sugar level in the saliva promotes the buildup of bacteria. Therefore helping seniors in maintaining good oral hygiene may help reduce their risks of pneumonia and bacteria from worsening.
Tooth loss in adults may expose them to problems related to nutrition. They may not be able to eat and enjoy certain fresh fruits and vegetables which are essential in building and maintaining their immune system. When seniors have a low immune system then the bacteria easily build up causing gum diseases. Thus helping them maintain good oral hygiene may help them prevent oral conditions.
How to improve oral health in seniors
You can always remind your loved ones if they are forgetful to brush twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily also prevents the buildup of plaque that causes gum diseases. You can also schedule regular visits to our dentist for gum disease examination and discuss the medical conditions of your loved one.
Schedule an appointment
You can always schedule and arrange for an appointment with our team of specialists for an examination of gum diseases and to be advised on how to go about it. Feel free to come by our office to talk to one of our friendly staff members.
Location
1739 NE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97230-1914
Hours
Mondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM Fridays: Closed