Oral Health Concerns For Seniors

elderly oral health San Juan Capistrano CAelderly oral health San Juan Capistrano CAAs we get older, we may think that tooth loss is a foregone conclusion. However, that is not the case. Elderly oral health can be robust when patients manage their risks and engage in good dental care practices.

Don’t think that you’re destined to lose your smile just because you are getting older. We can work with you to address your unique elderly oral health needs. Take advantage of our expertise in treating elderly patients.

Tooth Loss Is NOT An Inevitable Consequence Of Aging

Earlier generations didn’t have access to the state-of-the-art dental care that today’s older adults have received throughout their lives. So, of course more members of previous generations did experience tooth loss in conjunction with aging. But the tide is turning.

Oral Health Risks Faced By Older Adults

Although you don’t have to suffer tooth loss just because you’re getting older, there are some oral health risks that have a stronger association with aging, such as:

  • Increased risk of oral diseases, such as gum disease and oral cancer
  • Use of more medications, which may have dry mouth as a side effect
  • Increased risk of health conditions like arthritis that interfere with your ability to perform oral hygiene tasks

Furthermore, it may be difficult for some older adults with chronic health conditions or mobility issues to get out to see their dentist every six months. Homebound care, in which the dentist comes to you, can be a great solution to this issue.

Tips To Maintain Your Oral Health As You Age

In order to maintain your oral health as you age, you must be just as diligent about getting the necessary care and practicing good oral hygiene habits as you were when you were younger. Here are a few tips that will help to keep your smile in tip-top shape regardless of your age:

  • Have your teeth cleaned and get dental exams twice each year. This will help to reduce your risk of oral diseases and have any issues treated as early as possible.
  • Practice good oral hygiene habits, like twice-daily brushing and daily flossing. If you have limitations that prevent you from performing these tasks, ask your dentists for suggestions of tools or techniques that can make it easier.
  • Be sure to stay hydrated to counteract any dry mouth that develops as a result of medication use.

Do you want to preserve optimal oral health as you get older? Contact our office to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.