Good oral health is important at any age, but especially for seniors as they are at a high risk of several dental health conditions. Seniors must closely follow a strict oral care regimen in order to protect their health and ensure they achieve comfort in their golden years. Within this article, we’ll look at the leading reasons oral health is so important for seniors.
Periodontal Diseases Associated with Increased Risk of Stroke
The latest data shows that gum diseases have been associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart disease and respiratory problems. Seniors suffer these conditions in greater number and are therefore at a greater risk of encountering health issues if they don’t take care of their teeth and gums. Simply brushing and flossing every day can help remove the plaque and bacteria known to cause gum disease.
Seniors are More Likely to Suffer Dry Mouth
As we age, it’s more likely that we will be taking some form of medication. The medications we take can have significant side-effects and one of the most common is dry mouth. It’s important to recognize the impact that dry mouth can have on oral health. When our gums and teeth don’t have saliva to protect them, they’re more likely to develop gum disease and cavities. And for seniors, these oral health issues are more dangerous than the same condition in a younger person. To reduce dry mouth, it’s important to drink water throughout the day as well, chewing sugar free gum to help stimulate saliva.
Seniors More Likely to Neglect Their Oral Health
One of the reasons why so many seniors are now suffering from significant oral health conditions is that they are more likely, compared with the general population, to neglect their oral health needs. Often, this isn’t their fault. Some don’t have the capacity to brush their teeth regularly and shop for oral health products. Others don’t have the ability to visit the dentist on a regular basis. It’s important for those with elderly family members, friends and neighbours to consider this problem and to offer assistance where possible. It could help protect their health and ensure they achieve greater comfort as they age.
Seniors must protect their oral health to ensure a greater chance of a comfortable lifestyle free from health concerns. Each member of society plays in a role in helping our seniors in meeting their oral health objectives. To learn more on this issue, speak with our office team directly!