Dental Health Tips for Seniors
Proper oral hygiene gains greater importance as we age. Visiting Angels Toms River recognizes that helping an aging loved one maintain oral health habits can be difficult. These tasks are especially hard for seniors living with dementia or Alzheimer’s. We’ve put together the following list of dental health tips to help you support your aging loved one’s oral health.
5 Dental Health Tips for Seniors
As we age, our mouths change. A consistent brushing routine can cause gums to recede, and sometimes, the medications a senior takes can cause xerostomia or dry mouth. In addition, a high-sugar diet can lead to cavities and root decay. Below are tips for maintaining dental health in seniors.
1. Establish a Routine
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should brush twice a day, floss once daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Establishing and sticking to a routine can help your senior loved one remember to accomplish these goals. Visiting Angels Toms River caregivers also help seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s maintain a healthy routine.
2. Switch to an Electric Toothbrush
If your aging loved one has trouble with the back-and-forth motion of the toothbrush, electric toothbrushes can provide the brushing power necessary for proper oral health. Electric toothbrush technology has also come far regarding affordable options and various models.
3. Remove Dentures Before Sleep
Dentures certainly help seniors with their daily activities, but taking them out before sleep offers multiple benefits. Keeping dentures in while sleeping can cause a health hazard, and dentures also need time to soak to remove any stubborn bacteria or food particles. Your senior loved one’s gums may also need a break to prevent sores or discomfort.
4. Schedule and Attend Dentist Appointments
Scheduling and attending dentist appointments with the aging loved one in your life can help you stay on top of their oral health. In addition, Visiting Angels Toms River caregivers can also attend these visits to help support your loved one in daily oral care. They can also report any changes to your senior’s oral health, from sore spots and problems with pain to numbness or swelling.
5. Emphasize Oral Health as Part of Self-Care
Our oral health can easily influence our overall health, especially as we age. One of the best things you can do for the senior in your life is to emphasize the importance of oral health as it relates to self-care. Caring for your mouth can help you feel better, like drinking water daily can support your essential functions. Does your senior drink enough water?
The Link Between Senior Home Care and Oral Health
Visiting Angels Toms River prioritizes the health of our seniors as each of our caregivers lends a hand in supporting oral hygiene. Visit our website to learn more about our character and our experience in caring for local Toms River seniors and their families. Call us at 732-240-1050 to learn more about our senior home care services and how we can lend a helping hand.