1-800-PAINLESSGetting older comes with many benefits and perks. A few advantages to becoming a bona fide “senior citizen” include receiving a senior discount, caring less about what others think of you, being comfortable with yourself, and retirement. We all know that getting older isn’t always easy. Sometimes aging adds more medical concerns and complications such as limited mobility. Growing older can affect your dental health as well. It is vital that we continue to take good care of our teeth and gums as we age because there is a direct link between the health of our mouths and our overall health.
When it comes to dental health, there are a few issues that especially affect us as we age and it is important to know what issues can arise as we get older. Along with knowing what to expect, there are also some tips to help the elderly make sure to still take good care of their teeth and gums even if their health or mobility isn’t where it used to be.
Issues affecting our smiles as we age:
- Difficulty gripping and using a toothbrush: When a person ages, sometimes their mobility becomes affected and this can interfere with basic routines and activities we may have previously taken for granted. For example, the simple yet vital task of brushing our teeth can become difficult when mobility is limited. If it is difficult to grasp a toothbrush, you may want to have a loved one help you cut a slit in a tennis ball and slide the handle of your toothbrush into the ball. Now you will be able to hold the ball instead of trying to grasp the narrow handle. You may also find it more manageable to use an electric toothbrush since they do most of the work for you making it easier to effectively clean your teeth.
- Difficulty flossing: The act of flossing can be tedious and difficult as we age. If you find that wrapping the floss around your fingers and maneuvering it throughout your mouth is far too difficult, I’d urge you not to give up on flossing since it is vital to keeping your gums healthy. There are other options for cleaning between your teeth that you may find more manageable including a water flosser or a flosser on a handle. You can ask your dentist about alternatives to traditional flossing.
- Dry mouth: The condition of having a constantly dry mouth without relief is very bothersome but also very common. It can be caused simply by aging but it can also be caused by a variety of medications. You should discuss your dry mouth with your dentist so he or she can help come up with solutions such as a medicated mouthwash.
- Oral cancer: According to the American Dental Association, oral cancer is more likely to strike over the age of 40. Symptoms of oral cancer can include a lump, bump, sore, white or red spot anywhere in the mouth. Symptoms can also include difficulty swallowing, talking or moving your tongue. It can also be symptomless so regular oral cancer screenings with your dentist are vital to early detection and successful treatment.
Bright Side Dental is a dental group with locations in Sterling Heights, Livonia, Canton, and Royal Oak, Michigan. Visit www.BrightSideDental.com.
