Older Adults and Their Oral Health

Today’s seniors can expect to keep most, if not all, of their natural teeth as they age thanks to healthier lifestyles and advances in oral and medical care. But keeping those teeth healthy can be a challenge.

Restricted mobility, cognitive impairments, and medications that cause dry mouth can all contribute to oral problems and complicate treatment. Even more worrisome is the fact that bacteria from the mouth can travel through the body, resulting in serious infections and inflammation that can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and stroke.

Dental hygienists encourage all older adults to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean in between their teeth at least once a day. They also advise anyone with dentures (full or partial) and their caregivers to clean dentures daily, and brush and massage the gums either with a soft toothbrush or a warm damp cloth. Remember to remove dentures overnight to maintain healthy mouth tissue.

In addition to good daily mouth and denture care, all older adults need to schedule regular appointments for professional oral care. Thanks to the new Canadian Dental Care Plan and to dental hygienists who operate mobile dental hygiene practices, it’s getting easier to do so. Whether you are in your own home or in a long-term care residence, you can receive professional oral health care where you live from dental hygienists who are committed to keeping you smiling as you age.

For more information, visit dentalhygienecanada.ca/seniors.