Keeping one’s mouth clean helps to prevent diseases and infections. For loved ones who are aging, oral problems become common and can lead to major problems if hygiene is not maintained. There are many health issues related to the lack of regular oral care for seniors. Oral problems can become so significant that they may affect the quality and the well-being of life in many older people. Such issues include tooth decay, gum diseases, or even oral cancer. Our in home caregivers are trained to assist with oral care in seniors who are unable to adequately clean their own mouths.
1. Oral Care is Complete Body Care.
Dental issues like gum diseases may be a direct cause of health issues in other parts of the body. Studies have shown that there is a direct link between gum disease and heart disease. Seniors are easily affected by such conditions, which makes proper oral hygiene extremely important in order to help prevent such deadly diseases. Assistance with oral hygiene is one of the many benefits of one-on-one personalized senior care in the comfort of home.
2. Oral Care Maintains the General Hygiene of the Mouth.
As people get older, dentin, a tissue underneath the enamel layer of the teeth, begins to change in color due to the foods and drinks we indulge in. Smoking and excessive consumption of sugary drinks can stain the teeth. Regular oral care can help to keep certain stains to a minimum although both smoking and excessive sugary drinks should be avoided. Poor diet is also a cause of gum disease.
3. Oral Care Discourages Gum Overgrowth.
The likelihood of taking medication as we age is higher than during our younger years. Some drugs have side effects that may present problems within the mouth. Medications for high blood pressure are known to require calcium channel brokers that facilitate gum overgrowth, leading to other problems. Proper and regular oral hygiene discourages such gum growths.
4. Oral Care Reduces Tooth Loss and Decreases the Risk of Other Issues.
Muscle strength weakens as one gets older, and it may lead to toothaches and loss of teeth. Tooth loss has adverse effects on the perpendicular dimension of the jaw, which may lead to pathophysiological impacts. Some studies have even shown a close relationship between dental hygiene and the cognitive function of a person. Proper oral care is the preventive mechanism for avoiding such issues and stresses.
5. Oral Care for Seniors with No Teeth
- Seniors without teeth still need to have their mouths checked regularly. Dentures should be rinsed under running water to remove food particles after each meal. Dentures should also be brushed once a day using a denture-friendly toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
- Gently brushing the toothless mouth with a soft toothbrush removes plaque and increases circulation to fragile tissues. Use a mild mouthwash that kills germs, for fresher breath. Oral yeast infections, or thrush, is common among seniors who wear dentures so regular hygiene and monitoring by a professional are important.
- Dentures should be removed at night as this gives gums a chance to rest. Keeping dentures in too long can sometimes cause mouth sores. After cleaning, be sure to soak dentures overnight in water or a cleaning solution.
In conclusion, oral care an essential part of hygiene that carries much weight. The best dental care is brushing regularly especially after a meal. Sugar consumption should be minimized to avoid a build-up of bacteria in the mouth.
If your loved one needs in home senior care, Allcare Home Health Agency can help. Call (919) 301-0236 today to schedule a new client in home assessment with one of our skilled Registered Nurses.