When a senior stops enjoying food, there could be a few problems. One of the biggest culprits is the lack of proper oral health. Dental hygiene is crucial for seniors but also something people forget to consider. Even if your senior has dentures or fake teeth, taking care of your mouth is an important healthy habit that should be focused on. If a senior needs help to brush teeth or just stick to a routine, it’s time to look into personal care at home services. These professionals can help a senior with personal needs like oral health and may even take a senior to the dentist for a checkup.
Here are some of the best tips your elderly loved one can use to take care of their teeth and mouth.
Personal Care at Home can Drive them to Visit the Dentist Regularly
For seniors to maintain good oral health, they must see the dentist regularly. Problems may fester and become much more serious if patients only come in sometimes or not at all. Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist as soon as possible if you are a senior. If you know a senior who can’t get to an appointment and has been avoiding it, talk to their personal care at home professional and see if they can help drive a senior.
Brush Every Single Day and Continue Flossing
Dentists and medical professionals often advise their patients to wash their teeth twice daily, in the morning and before night. Dentists vary in their recommendations for when people should wash their teeth after eating. Many seniors’ oral hygiene routines, including brushing twice daily, will have been well established, but for those who want to take better care of their teeth and gums, it is essential to develop a regimen. Personal care at home can help remind a senior to brush after they’ve eaten a meal. A reminder can go a long way regarding oral health habits.
When it comes to maintaining good dental hygiene, many individuals neglect to floss on a daily basis even though doing so is essential. Seniors may benefit from better oral health and a decreased risk of cavities and gum disease by daily flossing. The advantages of flossing much outweigh the little discomfort of doing so once or twice a day.
Stop Using Tobacco
Your general and dental health are at risk when you smoke. One of the many adverse effects of smoking is discolored teeth. Tooth decay may be caused by chewing tobacco, and all tobacco products have been linked to esophageal and oral cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other significant and often fatal health issues. Your senior’s dentist may partner with their personal care at home professional to devise a plan to help a senior quit smoking. It may take a team of professionals and time to quit this habit.
Focus on Eating Less Sweets
Cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease are all consequences of a diet high in sugary foods and beverages. Brush your teeth immediately after consuming a dessert or sugary beverage, such as sweet tea or soda, to prevent tooth decay.
