As you age, the one thing that does not change is the importance of taking care of your teeth and gums. In fact, dental care may be even more important as we age. Here are some educational tips about elderly dental care to help you or your loved ones manage oral health in their Golden Years.
Dental Care for Senior Citizens
Visit your dentist at least twice a year. This remains as important now as it was when you were a child. In fact, it may be even more important. This is due to all the changes your body experiences as you age. The aging process leads to dry mouth and gum disease as well as numerous other chronic health conditions, all of which increases health risks.
The Administration on Aging and The World Health Organization reports that most people over the age of 65 have at least one chronic health condition. In fact, most have multiple conditions. Some examples include arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension as well as hearing loss, eyesight issues, back and neck pain, depression, and dementia. Managing these conditions typically involves taking medication many of which cause dry mouth leaving older Americans at higher risk for cavities and gum disease. What’s more, dental decay and periodontal disease correlate to diabetes, dementia, and heart disease. Neglecting elderly dental care can worsen these conditions.
Medicare & Senior Dental Care
People with chronic health conditions are not alone in bearing risk. In fact, healthy older adults run a greater risk for gum disease and cavities than younger folks. Unfortunately, as many older adults age, they retire and lose work-related health and dental benefits. Even if they remain Medicare eligible, only medically necessary procedures are allowed. Thus, another method requires enacting another option for covering elderly dental care visits. Without easy access to dental insurance, some older Americans choose to skip their regular dental visits, which again puts them at greater risk for oral health problems.
As you age, your gums may start to recede and you could experience dry mouth. Both put you at higher risk for cavities and gum disease. This is because less saliva remains to wash away bacteria.
Elderly Dental Health Care
Save your teeth and maintain good oral care by:
- Continuing to see your dentist twice a year
- If approved by your dentist, chew sugar-free gum after meals if you are unable to brush.
- Check to make sure your dentures, implants, crowns, and bridges remain in good condition.
- Speak to Dr. Fred Wong if you have any concerns.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.