You are never too old to enjoy healthy teeth and gums — and you are also never too old for regular dental check-ups. Yet, many older adults neglect their dental health by not keeping up with their regular dentist appointments.
At Dental Choice, we offer personalized dental care services to our senior patients to ensure proper oral hygiene helping you lead an active and healthy lifestyle no matter your age.
The Importance of Senior Dental Care
Today, individuals are living longer than ever, so ensuring dental health is essential. Not only can poor dental hygiene affect your ability to eat and maintain proper nutrition, but it can also impact your overall well-being. Some health conditions can even stem from poor dental health.
Whether our services are preventative, keeping cavities and gum disease at bay, or your dentures require special attention, Dental Choice is here for you. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings will help you maintain good dental health during your senior years.
Older Adults Dental Health Concerns
As your age advances, seniors are more at risk for quite a few dental health concerns. This includes:
- Darkened or stained teeth
- Gum disease
- Root decay
- Tooth loss
- Dry mouth due to reduced saliva flow
- Impaired sense of taste
- Uneven jawbone caused by missing teeth
- Denture-induced stomatitis
- Thrush
In addition to these oral health problems, gum disease and tooth decay have been linked to other health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and aspiration pneumonia. When bacteria in the mouth from tooth decay and gum disease enters the bloodstream, it can weaken your immune system causing these additional health concerns.
How Seniors Can Care for Their Teeth Between Visits
The best way to keep proper oral hygiene and to preserve your natural teeth is through daily brushing and flossing. Plaque builds up quickly on the teeth of older adults. This is especially true when you neglect your dental hygiene.
Regardless of age, the best method of caring for your teeth between dentist visits remains the same:
- Brush twice a day, preferably with a fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Floss once per day at lease
- Rinse with mouthwash one to two times a day
- Schedule regular check-ups at Dental Choice
- Call your dentist if you notice any changes in your mouth persisting longer than two weeks
Denture Care
Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, visiting your dentist regularly is still important. Your dentist does more than examine your teeth. They also check for any difficulties you may be experiencing with the joints of your jaws, your tongue and other areas of your mouth. They also screen you for oral health diseases.
The team at Dental Choice ensures that our patients with dentures know how to care for them properly. Taking care of your dentures and keeping them in good condition is vital to your overall oral health. Good practices include:
- Clean dentures over a water-filled sink to prevent damage if dropped
- Use denture brush and cleaner to brush all surfaces of your dentures, including the clasps on partial dentures
- Store them dry in a denture cup
- Wet your dentures with water before inserting them to prevent discomfort
Excellent Care for Seniors at Dental Choice
For senior patients living in Calgary and Edmonton looking for dental care, you can turn to the friendly and compassionate team at Dental Choice. With 16 locations to choose from, you’re bound to find an office near you. We ensure our older adult patients get the care they need to keep your mouth healthy, keeping you smiling for years to come.
Contact Dental Choice today to schedule your appointment.