Common Oral Health Issues for Aging Adults

Tooth Decay

Cavities happen all throughout life, even as seniors grow older. Bacteria and food particles stick to teeth, eventually causing damage that leads to decay. When seniors have more trouble brushing and flossing, they may not get as much plaque off of their teeth as they did in the past. Personal care providers can help with brushing, making sure seniors get their teeth clean every day.

Tooth Loss

Tooth decay quickly leads to tooth loss. Abscesses, or infections around the root of a tooth, can also contribute to tooth loss. When seniors lose teeth, they might experience a whole host of unexpected side effects, like difficulty speaking, discomfort, and trouble eating. Proper dental care helps to reduce these impacts and can allow seniors to continue eating without discomfort.

Gum Disease

When gums become inflamed, red, and tend to bleed easily, seniors may have gum disease. Gums can also recede, or pull back from the teeth, leaving more of the root exposed. Staying on top of brushing and flossing can help seniors keep their gums healthier. Regular dental visits can help seniors stay on top of gum issues, and elder care providers can help them get to those appointments regularly.

Dry Mouth

Saliva is the first step in the digestive process because it helps to break down foods and makes it easier to chew and swallow food. But seniors may have more trouble with dry mouth as they age, leaving their mouths dry and uncomfortable. When seniors ignore dry mouth, it can lead to other issues, like tooth decay and even tooth loss. Drinking more water throughout the day adds moisture and helps seniors keep their mouths from drying out as much. Home care providers can help seniors remember to sip plenty of water all throughout the day.

Denture Issues

There are a lot of misconceptions about dentures. Many people feel as if they don’t need dental care if they have dentures, but that’s not the case. Seniors can experience problems like gums shrinking, sore spots from their dentures, and bone changes that affect the fit. Dentists check the dentures and the entire mouth to make sure everything is functioning properly. At home, proper denture care extends the life of the dentures and ensures seniors can still safely and comfortably eat.

Helping Seniors with Oral Care

As seniors experience other challenges, like cognitive illnesses or arthritis, that impact their ability to take care of their dental health needs, they may need additional help. Personal care at home can be there to offer that assistance. Family caregivers may feel awkward or ill-prepared to handle these tasks, but professional caregivers have the necessary experience to help.

Taking care of oral health issues for seniors is such an important part of helping them to age in place safely. Personal care at home offers help not only with dental issues, but with other daily tasks like bathing, changing clothes, and more.

If you or an aging loved one is considering personal care at home in Westchester County, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. 646-480-6266