Due to better dental health care, and overall better health, we can expect to keep our teeth for much longer than our elders did. Daily brushing and flossing throughout your life and into your twilight years, is essential to keeping your teeth and mouth healthy. Plaque can have a tendency to build up on teeth of seniors more quickly leading to gum disease and tooth decay. When your loved one is in senior care, it is important that good oral health care is practiced and daily brushing and flossing is essential.
Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the most frequent cause of tooth loss in seniors. Oral and pharyngeal cancers are also detected more frequently in people aged 60 and older. Medications and prescription drugs can also cause side affects such as dry mouth, which can lead to oral disease. Bacteria from the mouth can travel to other areas of the body, causing infections that can affect your overall health. Even if you no longer have your natural teeth and are wearing dentures, the health of your mouth still needs to be maintained. Regular dental visits are crucial for seniors to maintain your oral and overall health.
Whether you are at living at home or in assisted living facility in Kamloops or in residential care, proper oral hygiene combined with regular dental visits is crucial for seniors. This will help prevent more serious health problems in the future. If you are noticing any changes in your bite, swelling or redness of the gums, bad taste in the mouth or bad breath, or gums receding away from the teeth, you should see a dental practitioner in the Kamloops area. Seniors don’t have to tolerate clicking dentures or bleeding gums, and a dental practitioner can help to make you as comfortable as possible when treating your needs.