Senior Caregivers Need To Know the Best Way To Care for Elderly Teeth and Dentures
Posted on 5/24/2021 by Dr. David Wanserski
The mouth hosts bacteria that, if left unchecked, can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease links to life-threatening conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. If you are a senior caregiver, you should know the best way to care for the elderly's teeth and dentures, given that some have conditions such as arthritis and dementia, which may affect their oral routine. Arthritis makes it difficult for the elderly to hold their toothbrush, while dementia affects their ability to remember when to brush their teeth. Thus, to care for the elderly's teeth and dentures, you should establish a routine, use an electric toothbrush, and adopt a healthy diet.
Establish a Routine
Start by training the elderly to brush their teeth after meals, preferably after breakfast and before going to bed. You should then stick to this routine to increase the chances of compliance. Make this routine easy for them by getting their toothbrush, toothpaste, and water. While doing this, you can add fun by playing their favorite music.
Use an Electric Toothbrush
If the person you are caring for has diabetes, it may be difficult for them to handle their toothbrush. Thus, instead of a manual toothbrush, try using an electric toothbrush. You should then guide them on their teeth surfaces and let the brush do its job. If the person you are caring for cannot floss their teeth, you can as well do it for them. If you are unsure how to do it, you can talk to us for a demonstration.
Clean the Dentures
Whether the person you are caring for wears partial or complete dentures, you should ensure that they remove them daily for cleaning to prevent mouth sores and bacterial accumulation. You should also encourage them to clean their mouth with a soft-bristled brush to prevent bad breath. Other things you can do to care for the elderly teeth include adopting a healthy diet and other medication. For more details on dental care for the elderly, contact our office today.
Dental Blog | Wausau, WI | Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry Dr. David Wanserski, DDS, from Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Learn more. Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, 550 N. 17th Ave. Wausau, WI 54401 • (715) 848-2435 • wanserskidental.com • 12/4/2024 • Tags: dental implants Wausau WI •
The mouth hosts bacteria that, if left unchecked, can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease links to life-threatening conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. If you are a senior caregiver, you should know the best way to care for the elderly's teeth and dentures, given that some have conditions such as arthritis and dementia, which may affect their oral routine. Arthritis makes it difficult for the elderly to hold their toothbrush, while dementia affects their ability to remember when to brush their teeth. Thus, to care for the elderly's teeth and dentures, you should establish a routine, use an electric toothbrush, and adopt a healthy diet.