Poor dental health in older adults can lead to several other health problems, so taking the time to care for your teeth and gums is important. There are plenty of ways to get dental care, even if you’re on a budget. Keep reading for reasons why you should know how to maintain your oral health as you get older.
Dental problems are more common in seniors and can lead to other health problems if not treated
As people age, they are more at risk for developing dental problems. Older adults are more likely to have chronic medical conditions leading to dry mouth and saliva deficiency. In addition, many seniors take medications that can cause side effects that damage dental health. That is why, when it comes to dental care, seniors are a top priority.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dental problems are very common in seniors and can lead to other health problems if not treated. It should not be neglected when it comes to dental care seniors need.
For these reasons, it is important to have dental coverage for seniors and to see a dentist regularly. About one in four older adults has dental coverage for seniors through Canadian Medicare, but this only covers basic dental care services. If you need more extensive dental work, you will likely have to pay for it out of pocket.
Thankfully, there is dental insurance for seniors available that can help older adults get the dental care they need for free. These dental insurance plans typically cover 100% of the cost of preventive care and a portion of the cost of dental procedures like fillings, crowns, and bridges. Dental insurance can be an invaluable resource for older adults concerned about maintaining good oral health.
Many private insurance policies offer dental plans for seniors, and some provinces offer dental assistance programs for low-income residents. You can read about dental insurance for seniors in Alberta by visiting Seasons Retirement’s article on the subject.
Poor oral hygiene can cause bacteria to build up and lead to gum disease and tooth decay
Poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease. When dental care is not properly maintained, bacteria can build up in the mouth, eventually leading to cavities and other problems. For seniors, this is a particularly serious concern. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of stroke and heart disease, and tooth loss can lead to difficulty eating and speaking. You can read about common dental problems among older adults by clicking here.
Seniors may not have the desire to brush their teeth properly, so it’s important to find a way to make brushing easier
Older adults should be aware of the dental care seniors need to maintain their oral health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to some problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
It is important to find a way to make dental care easier for seniors. One option is to invest in an electric toothbrush which can be easier to use than manual toothbrushes. These brushes are designed to be ergonomic and easy to hold, and many models come with built-in timers to ensure that users brush for the recommended two minutes. Seniors can maintain good oral health by taking advantage of these products and services.
There are many dental care products available for seniors, such as toothpaste with built-in fluoride and floss that is gentle on gums
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, more than one in five seniors have untreated tooth decay.
Seniors are more likely to have dental problems due to a lifetime of wear and tear on their teeth, and they may also have other health conditions that can impact their dental health.
Fortunately, there are a number of dental care products available that can help seniors maintain healthy smiles for years to come. For example, toothpaste with built-in fluoride helps prevent cavities, while flossing gently on gums is less likely to cause irritation and reduce gum disease risk. Another option is to purchase water flossers to help remove plaque and food debris from teeth.
See a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth healthy
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are important for people of all ages, but they are especially crucial for seniors. As we get older, our teeth and gums become more susceptible to various problems.
During a dental visit, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any problems and will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar. Your dentist may also recommend treatments to prevent dental problems, such as fluoride treatments.
After your visit to your local dentist, you do not have to worry about the dental coverage for seniors. Fortunately, there are several dental plans for seniors. Many dental plans offer discounts on preventive care services like checkups and cleanings, and dental insurance policies typically cover a significant portion of the cost of these services. In addition, many dental offices offer special payment plans or financing options that can make dental care more affordable.
Conclusion
Dental health is an important part of overall health and is especially crucial for seniors. Neglecting oral care can lead to several serious health problems down the road, so it’s important to take steps now to protect your dental health. Brushing and flossing daily, seeing a dentist regularly, and eating a healthy diet are all essential for keeping your teeth healthy as you get older.
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