You’ve heard it all your life. Brush your teeth at least twice per day and don’t forget to floss. The same is true even if we lose all our teeth and wear dentures. If you don’t have your natural teeth, you still must brush your gums and your dentures. According to the Washington Dental Service Foundation (WDSF), around 75% of adults 60 and older only have a portion of their original teeth. A lack of oral hygiene and poor dental health can lead to more than just periodontal disease. It causes other issues that effect the entire body. Here are some of the biggest reasons to make sure you and your loved ones are taking mouth care seriously and practicing good oral care.
Gum Disease
Gum disease results from a buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. It often develops from consuming a poor diet and having poor oral health care habits in earlier years. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is characterized by red, swollen or bleeding gums. It frequently results from the use of tobacco products, unhealthy diets, or poor fitting dentures. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible. With regular trips to the dentist, routine flossing and a good oral care routine, you can repair the health of your mouth.
Darkened and Sensitive Teeth
As we age, the dentin, or the bone-like tissue that underlies the tooth enamel, changes because of the food and drinks we consume. Staining, in addition to a thinning of the outer enamel layer, results in allowing the yellow dentin to show through and creates darkened teeth. This process is foreshadowed by the presence of sensitive teeth. We’ve all had that moment when we’ve taken a bite of ice cream or drank a cold glass of water only to wince at the sharp, tingling sensation in our teeth. While there are a number of factors that cause tooth sensitivity, proper brushing and using a repairing toothpaste, such as Colgate Sensitive Prevent and Repair, will gradually appease that sensitivity.
Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when your body’s blood glucose exceeds normal levels, which hinders the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. There are two types of diabetes – Type 1, often found in children and young adults, and Type 2, which is far more common, and is often the result of a poor diet. Those with diabetes are at much greater risk for gum disease, thrush (a fungus that grows in the mouth) and dry mouth. Monitoring your sugar intake from candy and soda, and watching out for starch-filled snacks can reduce insulin levels. Be sure to brush shortly after snacking to prevent sugars from sticking to teeth and gums. Making healthy diet changes and having good oral care in addition to regular dental checkups can help prevent this condition.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is defined as a lack of saliva in the mouth. It often results from taking certain medications or receiving cancer treatments of radiation to the head and neck. There are over 400 medications that have dry mouth as a side effect. Approximately 30% of adults age 65 and older experience dry mouth. Saliva keeps the mouth wet, which protects teeth from decay and prevents infection by controlling bacteria, viruses and fungi in the mouth. When left untreated, dry mouth can increase the probability of tooth and root decay, both of which can lead to infections and tooth loss. To treat dry mouth at home, avoid caffeine, alcohol, acidic juices, and soda that can worsen the problem, and be sure to drink lots of water. Stop smoking and start chewing sugar-free gum or candy, which will help stimulate saliva. It is also a good idea to avoid mouthwashes unless they are specifically designed for dry mouth.
Pneumonia
There are many published findings that link poor oral health and pneumonia, particularly in older adults. It is thought to be caused by breathing in bacterial droplets from the mouth to the lungs. A mouth with poor oral hygiene is a breeding ground for bacteria to grow. Simply swallowing our own saliva can result in a severe case of pneumonia, especially for seniors who are more susceptible to the condition. This is particularly important for those in nursing homes and hospitals where many residents rely on the staff to ensure proper oral care. A Journal of the American Dental Association study concluded that good hygiene practices may prevent the death of 1 in 10 elderly nursing home residents that result from health care–associated pneumonia. Establishing a routine for mouth care, regular cleanings and dentist visits can prevent bacteria from forming and potentially getting into the lungs.
Tips for Good Oral Care
You may think that losing your teeth is just a natural, but that is not necessarily true. So with all these risks, what can be done to ensure good oral care for seniors? Well let’s start with the basics.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Use a fluoride containing toothpaste.
- Switch to an electric toothbrush.
- Clean between teeth once a day with floss or other inter-dental cleaner.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice daily.
- If you wear dentures, remember to use denture cleaner on them on a daily basis. It is important to remove both partials and full dentures from mouth daily for at least 4 hours daily, preferably at night.
- Drink water with fluoride. Fortunately, the tap water in most places contain fluoride which can help reduce tooth decay at any age. Using testing strips will ensure your water has the appropriate levels.
- Quit smoking. Besides putting you at increased risk for lung and mouth cancer, it stains your teeth and increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss. Products like NicoDerm or Nicorette gum can help.
- Follow a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes high fiber foods.
Incorporating good oral care into your morning and evening routine will not only improve the condition of your mouth, but also improve your overall health. So schedule an appointment to see your dentist and take the necessary steps to put your oral health into tip-top shape.
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