Oral Health Tips for Seniors

MediNurse, now in its fourth decade as the premier provider of private duty nursing in St. Louis, reminds the public that as we age, issues that affect our mouth can increase or worsen.

It is especially important to be aware of various conditions associated with aging that can impact oral health. Most people know that regular dental checkups are important, but most don’t realize that the health of our mouth is important not only for our oral health, but for our overall health as well.

About 75 percent of people over 60 years old have only some of their natural teeth, and nearly 64 percent of adults over 65 have moderate or severe gum disease. Here are some tips to help keep your mouth healthy as you age:

· Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. If it’s difficult to hold the toothbrush, ask your dentist for other options that can help you.

· Floss once a day to clean between teeth.

· Get regular dental checkups, even if you have dentures.

· Limit intake of starchy snacks, sugared candy and sugary drinks. When you do snack, remember to brush your teeth afterward. Even rinsing your mouth with water after snacks can reduce the risk of decay,

· Talk to your dentist right away if you develop dry mouth. This can be caused by health conditions and certain medications, and can quickly lead to cavities and other tooth problems. Drink extra water or use sugar-free gum, candy or mints to moisten your mouth. Oral moisturizers can also be effective. Your dentist might recommend fluoride treatments to further strengthen teeth.

· Bacteria from an abscessed tooth or other dental infection can spread throughout the body, worsening other inflammatory conditions like heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and type 2 diabetes.

· Check your mouth regularly for sores. If you notice any unusual lumps, bumps or sores that don’t resolve within two weeks, see your doctor or dentist.

· Don’t use tobacco.

Oral disease is preventable. Maintain your smile and overall health by taking care of your teeth and gums.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.