Maintaining a healthy mouth and teeth in an older adult may be tough since aging and certain health conditions might make them more susceptible to dental disorders. If you find that your parents can no longer get to the dentist for regular checkups because they can’t drive anymore, it’s time to put in place an elder care provider to help your seniors around the house.
It often takes an entire team of health care professionals and elder care providers to ensure your parents are aging in place healthily. As your senior parents age, they will have multiple health problems that need to be cared for. Some of these health problems include gum diseases and problems in their teeth. It is so important to get regular checkups at the dentist as well as the doctor. Here are some problems that could occur and what treatments there are for them.
Tooth Decay
Cavities may result from dental decay and can cause discomfort, infection, and even tooth loss. It is often caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar. A sugary diet, snacking between meals, and decreased saliva production all contribute to the accumulation of sugar and acid in the mouth.
Anyone can get cavities if they’re not careful. This includes kids, adults, and seniors. A senior can prevent cavities from happening by brushing their teeth at least twice a day, eating healthy, and getting regular checkups at the dentist.
Gum Disease
When seniors are not focused on their teeth, mouth, diet, or anything else, they are at risk of getting gum disease. This is, also commonly known as periodontal disease, is a widespread infection caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar. Smoking might also be a factor. Gums become inflamed, red, and bleeding are signs of advanced gum disease.
Gum disease, thankfully, is both preventable and treated with good dental care. This involves flossing and cleaning your teeth on a regular basis. Consult your dentist immediately if your older adult exhibits indications of gum disease. They’ll be able to do a thorough examination and evaluation, as well as develop a treatment plan.
Receding Gums
If a senior isn’t taking care of their mouth or teeth for a long time or refuses to see the dentist regularly, gum disease can lead to receding gums. Teeth may become sensitive when the root of the tooth is exposed, and teeth may seem to lengthen. This illness, if left untreated, may cause considerable damage to oral tissues, an increased risk of developing gum disease, and tooth loss.
If your older adult exhibits indications of receding gums, schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible to discuss the best course of action. Deep cleaning or scaling is one treatment option, while surgical treatments such as gum grafts are another.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer risk rises with age. Individuals who smoke or use alcohol on a regular basis are at a greater risk. It is beneficial to have your older adult’s dentist look for chronic sores, ulcers, or changes in the color of the tissue in or around the mouth. Going to the dentist often means a senior can regularly check for oral cancer and stop it before it spreads.