From a young age, we are taught to develop good oral hygiene habits such as flossing to prevent cavities. As we grow older, taking great care of our teeth remains an important aspect of our daily routine. Dental care is especially essential for our loved ones advancing in years as it can directly affect their quality of life since they are more susceptible to oral-related health conditions such as gum disease.
Dental health for your elderly loved ones can be further complicated if their dental hygiene is overlooked. To prevent major health complications from arising, ensuring your loved ones follow strictly to an oral hygiene routine is of paramount importance.
Five Dental Care Tips
These are five tips you can use to help your loved one receive good dental health:
- Brush twice daily for two minutes each time
For many, this habit should have been well-established in their daily routine. Most dental practitioners would also recommend soft toothbrushes for more mature adults and replacement of toothbrushes once every three months. However, for those with certain types of gum conditions, hard toothbrushes may be recommended by the dental practitioner. If you are worried that your loved one may require assistance with daily living activities such as brushing their teeth, Rittenhouse Village provides an assisted living program to ensure your family member receives help with housekeeping, management of medication, and 24/7 medical care.
- Taking good care of dentures or other oral appliances
Dental care for your loved ones would also include the usage of dentures. The dental practitioners would have provided specific instructions to take great care of the dentures. If putting them on becomes uncomfortable or painful, it is necessary to visit the dentist to address this issue. Additionally, it is recommended to attend dental check-ins at least once every year.
- Steer clear of tobacco products
Not only is tobacco harmful to your family member’s overall health, but it can also affect their oral health. Chewing on tobacco can cause tooth cavities and tobacco is associated with several types of cancer such as mouth and throat cancer, as well as many life-threatening health conditions like heart disease.
- Set regular dental visits for your loved one
Keeping to a regular dental appointment schedule is important for their dental health. If overlooked, this can cause dental problems to fester over time and become detrimental to your family member’s oral health. If your family member does not have access to a nearby medical facility, you are at the right place. Here at Rittenhouse Village, we offer different types of senior living programs and 24/7 on-site medical care. Your loved ones will have peace of mind knowing that medical services are always accessible to them.
- Hydration is key
There are several medications for common types of health problems such as high blood pressure which can cause dry mouth. Having a dry mouth can potentially lead to erosion of the tooth enamel if one is not well hydrated. It is recommended to consume 64 ounces of water every day.
Taking care of basic living needs such as your loved one’s dental health is very important and goes a long way in preventing further health complications at their old age.
If you have any questions about assisted living programs for your loved ones, keep in touch with Rittenhouse Village today.
