As we age, it is common for us to experience a decline in our vision, strength, and dexterity. This can hinder us from completing our daily tasks with ease which can include activities like flossing our teeth and more. The precise coordination that flossing requires can be a real chore for an aging adult. To avoid giving up the task altogether, here are several flossing tips you should know to support your oral health as you age.
Importance of Flossing
Flossing is a non-negotiable step when it comes to oral health. It can clean up to 35% of our tooth surface that cannot be reached by a toothbrush. Flossing can help to dislocate food particles that are caught in between the teeth as well as along the gums. Flossing is an important oral hygiene task that helps to prevent gum disease which may threaten both your teeth and body. By practicing daily flossing, we can fight back against the threat. As we age, we already become susceptible to oral health problems as our mouths get dry, our gums recede, and other health conditions start to develop.
Flossing Solutions for Older Adults
Traditional dental floss can be troublesome for any person which inflicts even more hassle for older adults who have lost a certain percentage of their vision, dexterity, and fine motor skills. There are several alternatives to flossing which include the following:
- Floss Holder: Floss holders are inexpensive tools that do not require the user to hold the flossing thread directly. It has a Y-shape structure that holds a piece of floss tightly. The tool makes it so much easier to get in between each tooth, thus minimizing the effort required for each floss. Floss holders are disposable, thus there is no cleaning needed to save time and effort.
- Water Flosser: A water flosser helps to minimize effort and maximize effectiveness. It is a powered device that makes use of high-pressured water that blasts away food particles and plaque. The device is easy to use and does not need excessive coordination to use. Additionally, water flossers massage the gum at the same time to promote a much healthier framework for daily smiles.
Burdened by Oral Health
Poor oral health can affect a great part of your appearance. It can also lead to many dental problems such as gingivitis, cavities, and others. If you have started to find that brushing and flossing have become increasingly challenging for yourself as you age, do not give up. Make use of the flossing alternatives that we have shared above or seek the help of a dentist near you. By maintaining good oral health, you can keep bacteria under control. The bacteria will not reach levels that may lead to oral infections. You can look forward to waking up every day feeling and looking fresh without any foul bad breath. Good oral health will also prevent periodontal disease that may put you at a greater risk of developing heart disease. Visit your dentist at least twice a year and brush your teeth twice a day.
