When determining dental health, age must not be considered the sole or dominant factor. However, a few medical conditions, like arthritis in the fingers and hands, can make brushing teeth or flossing quite difficult. Over-the-top medications can make dramatic changes in oral care treatment.
The following write-up specifies the dental disorders that usually the elderly experience along with other substantial information – hygiene tips, financial aid, etc. Please check it out right now.
Table of Contents
What Dental Disorders Elderly Suffer From?
According to the dentists marketing themselves as supportive of the elderly, advancing age puts the seniors at risk for a wide range of dental disorders such as,
Dry mouth
Caused by low saliva flow, which is often a side-effect of cancer treatments that inflict radiation to the neck and head, and autoimmune diseases like Sjogren’s syndrome, dry mouth can be annoying.
Dark Teeth
Teeth may darken due to alterations in the dentin – a bone-like tissue that lies beneath the enamel – and by consuming stain-causing foods and drinks for a prolonged period. Dark teeth are a sign of a serious issue and must be checked immediately.
Uneven Jawbone
This happens when a missing tooth is not replaced. The rest of the teeth shift and drift to acquire the gap, which changes the jawbone’s overall structure.
Stomatitis
Poorly fitted dentures and neglecting dental hygiene can trigger the accumulation of a fungus called Candida Albicans. The tissues that lie below the dentures inflame abnormally.
Dental Hygiene Tips for Elderly
Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, and rinsing the mouth after every meal are essential. Plaque builds up on the teeth of the seniors much quickly, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Using an antiseptic mouthwash is also beneficial. One must visit a dentist after every six months, even if they do not suffer from any noticeable problem.
What the Seniors Can Expect from a Dental Examination?
Are you are a senior headed for a dental checkup? The appointed dentist will carry out a comprehensive examination. He/she would also ask the following questions:
- When you last visited the dentist and why?
- Have you noticed any changes in your mouth?
- Do you have a loose or sensitive tooth?
- Do you find it hard to chew, swallow, or taste?
- Do you have any painful sores in your mouth that bleed when touched?
- Do you have any bumps or lumps in your mouth?
During a dental exam, the dentist will cautiously evaluate your neck and face for moles, sores, or any type of discoloration, your jaw for signs of popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint, your internal cheeks for ulcers, infections, and injuries, your salivary glands and lymph nodes for a sign of inflammation, your tongue for blemishes, your teeth for decay and cracks, your gum tissue for signs of oral cancer, and the floor of your mouth.
While analyzing the journeys of dental patients all across the globe, the researchers found out that senior citizens with fixed or limited income often fail to afford regular oral care. Well, the dentists provide services at discounted fees through the dental society subsidized campaigns.
As aid tends to vary from one location to another, contact the local dental association for details about where you will be able to find assistance programs and reasonably priced solutions – public healthcare centers and dental schools.
