Do you have a loved one living in an assisted living facility? Are you their caretaker? If so, it’s important that you recognize how essential it is that they maintain good oral health. Because there are direct links between problems of the mouth and those of the body, helping them stay on top of their daily oral hygiene routine as well as continuing to see a dentist every six months will help to improve the health of their teeth and gums and reduce their risk for more serious and costly treatment. To better understand the importance, a dentist for seniors in Ponte Vedra Beach shares 3 reasons regular dental care can benefit your loved one and their smiles.
Preventive Care Allows for Early Detection
As you age, changes in your facial structure, as well as your teeth and gums, begin to occur. Gum disease, worn down tooth enamel, missing teeth, and gum recession are all possible realities for seniors. This is why you should bring your loved one in for preventive care. With regular dental checkups and cleanings, their dentist can identify problems early on and recommend the appropriate method of treatment. Not to mention, oral cancer is a deadly disease that can affect anyone. By undergoing a regular dental checkup, the dentist can also check for any abnormalities to ensure your loved one does not require further testing and examination.
Brushing and Flossing Are Key
At-home oral hygiene routines are vital components for anyone looking to maintain good dental health. But for seniors who may be experiencing a decline in their cognitive function, they often forget to brush and floss their teeth each day. This is why as their caretaker, you’ll need to assist in helping them with their morning and evening routines. In doing so, you’ll reduce their risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities that can lead to serious infections. Also, remember that if they have a dental prosthetic of any kind that it is properly cleaned before they reinsert it into their mouth. This helps to eliminate bad bacteria and keep their oral health in check.
Replace Missing Teeth to Avoid Jawbone Loss
For seniors, tooth loss can make life much harder. From not being able to speak clearly to being unable to eat many of their favorite foods, it can begin to feel as if their smile is something else they’re losing. The good news is that with the help of a trusted dental professional, they can enjoy a restored smile with the help of a dental bridge, dentures, or dental implants. Depending on the status of their oral and overall health as well as their jawbone density, the right method of treatment will make it possible for them to embrace a more aesthetically pleasing and healthy smile.
Senior oral health in Ponte Vedra Beach is essential. By taking the time to find the right dentist and help your loved one be proactive about taking care of their teeth and gums, they can enjoy a smile that will last for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Townsend earned his dental doctorate from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. As a dentist at Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, he and his colleagues believe it is important to provide patients with the knowledge and tools to take care of their smiles while at home. For seniors who need a little extra assistance, we are pleased to provide exceptional services designed to prevent oral health problems as well as repair and rebuild smiles plagued by decay and damage. If you are caring for an elderly loved one and need assistance, contact us at (904) 285-7711.