Common Oral Care Concerns In Older Age

Oral Care Concerns In Older Age

Oral Care is important for patients of all ages, but many issues become more intense in the elderly. Seniors are more prone to problems with missing teeth, denture care, discoloration, and periodontal disease. Understanding the risks that are specific to seniors will give you a better understanding of how to address and prevent these oral health issues.

1. Dry Mouth – Oral Care:

Dry mouth is not a normal part of the ageing process. Dry mouth, or a lack of saliva to keep your mouth moist, can cause several problems like chewing, eating, swallowing, and even talking. Because saliva helps protect your mouth from bacteria, dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay.

The following factors can contribute to dry mouth:

• Medication-related side effects:

  Dry mouth can be caused by hundreds of medications used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, pain, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• Trauma to the head or neck                       

2. Gum Disease – Oral Care :

It is an infection of the gums and the tissue that holds teeth in place. It occurs when plaque is allowed to accumulate beneath and along the gumline. Improved oral hygiene can reverse mild gum disease. Brush and floss daily, and see your dentist on a regular basis to prevent gum disease early.

3. Bad Breath – Oral Care:

• Seniors frequently have bad breath, which can make social situations awkward. It’s critical to understand that bad breath isn’t a standalone symptom. There is an underlying cause that you must address in order to resolve this issue.
• Gum disease and dry mouth can both contribute to bad breath.
• Another major contributor is poor dental hygiene.
• To keep your teeth clean, visit your dentist twice a year and brush and floss daily.
• If you have dentures, make sure to clean them as thoroughly as you would your natural teeth. Plaque can accumulate on both dentures and teeth, contributing significantly to bad breath.

4. Tooth Loss – Oral Care:

Tooth loss is a common issue among the elderly. In this age group, smoking and poor dental hygiene are major causes of tooth loss. To reduce your chances of tooth loss, visit your dentist on a regular basis. If you do lose a tooth, see your dentist as soon as possible to discuss options that will help you eat, talk, and smile comfortably again, such as a tooth implant.

5. Cavities – Oral Care:

• Cavities in your teeth can become easier to develop over time. Seniors are more vulnerable as a result of this.
• Consuming sugary foods increases your chances of getting cavities.
• You can help prevent them by limiting your intake of sugary drinks and foods, as well as brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis.
• Making use of an antiseptic mouth rinse help protect your teeth from cavities.

6. Inadequate Denture Care – Oral Care:

• Some people believe that dentures aren’t as delicate as natural teeth. In fact, dentures require the same level of care and attention as natural teeth.
• To avoid damage and discoloration, brush and clean them on a regular basis. Plaque can accumulate on dentures just like it would on any other tooth, irritating your gum tissue and leading to gum disease and other problems.
• After each meal, remove your dentures and rinse them to remove any food particles. Brush your dentures every evening and soak them in a cleaning solution. To keep your gums clean and healthy, brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush.

7. Oral Sores or Abrasions That Do Not Heal:

After the age of 55, your risk of developing oral cancer rises. Generally,  pain is not an early symptom of the disease, which is why you should be cautious of any changes in your mouth.

8. Discoloration of the teeth:

• A slight darkening of the teeth is a natural ageing effect. While good dental hygiene can help prevent this, some discoloration is unavoidable.
• To keep your teeth as white as possible, avoid tobacco products, coffee, soda, and tea.
• If you’re unhappy with the way your teeth look, you should talk to your dentist about cosmetic services that can help. You can achieve the desired look by using tooth whitening services or permanent dental veneers.

Don’t let preventable dental problems harm your health. Flossing and brushing daily, being aware of changes in your mouth, and visiting your dentist at least once a year can all contribute to the health of your mouth and body.