When it comes to proper dental care, senior citizens should prioritize their oral health for a variety of important reasons. Oral health has a direct influence on overall health and with adequate senior citizen dental care, toothaches, gum disease, and tooth loss can be reduced, and possibly avoided, altogether.
However, in the United States, access to dental care for senior citizens remains a concern because when someone retires, dental coverage stops and Medicare doesn’t cover dental expenses. But there are simple dental care tips for senior citizens one can follow at home and important signs when you absolutely must see a dentist.
The Importance of Seeing a Dentist for Senior Citizens
Gum disease is common in the elder population, which is why seeing a dentist for senior citizens is so important. This occurs when the gum tissue peels away from the tooth, revealing the tooth’s base, or root. In the case of periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, one can experience painful, bleeding gums, difficulty biting, and tooth loss.
In order to combat this disease, early detection and holistic treatment from a reputable dentist is the best weapon.
How Often Should A Senior Citizen See A Dentist?
According to the American Oral Association (ADA), each individual is unique and their distinct lifestyle patterns influence their dental health as they get older. Checking for symptoms of oral issues including cavities and gum disease should be a part of a normal bi-annual check-up.
Seeing your dentist on a regular basis might help you identify symptoms early on before they develop into more serious issues. Regular dental care is especially crucial for ageing elders to avoid deteriorating health issues and serious, irreversible disorders. Therefore, seeing a dentist is a necessary visit once every six months.
Tips For Senior Citizen Dental Care
Senior citizens can keep a healthy oral care routine by following these tips:
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Opt for an electric toothbrush for optimal clean with less manual effort.
- Taking supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D, can support strong teeth.
- Try to eat a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate diet to avoid tooth decay.
- Smoking is one of the most harmful factors for overall health, especially for your teeth, so try to quit smoking.
- Even though flossing constitutes a vital aspect of dental hygiene, many people do not floss on a regular daily basis. Make sure to floss at least once a day.
Don’t underestimate the care that your teeth need—if you’re searching for senior dental care near Coral Gables, contact us today!
We understand the importance of senior citizen dental care and provide the best options for the care of your dental health.