As people age, they have changing dental needs, and seniors should work harder to maintain their oral health. They are at risk of unique tooth and gum issues, including gum disease. If you’re above the age of 65, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind. 

A Guide to Senior Dental Care

1. Attend Regular Dental Appointments

Skipping your bi-annual dentist appointments may not seem like a big deal. However, missing one or two can leave a cavity undiagnosed, which could result in extra dental work and even tooth loss. Untreated tooth decay can eat away at the pulp inside the tooth, potentially requiring tooth removal to prevent the issue from spreading to the jaw.

2. Assess Medication Side Effects

Many people over the age of 65 take medications to manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Dry mouth is a common side effect of these medications. In addition to being inconvenient, dry mouth can place you at a heightened risk of dental issues. Saliva protects the tooth enamel and mitigates bacteria that can cause fungal infections. Plus, it assists with swallowing and digestion. 

3. Brush & Floss Daily

Seniors often experience gum recession and disease, which can leave teeth vulnerable to decay. Continue to brush and floss daily to protect the enamel from these issues. When brushing, avoid doing so aggressively, as this can damage the outside layer of the teeth. 

If you’re experiencing mobility issues, talk with the dentist about making your daily hygiene more comfortable. For example, if flossing is painful, purchase water flossers to reduce the strain on your arms and prevent sore gums. 

If you need geriatric dental care, contact Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., L.L.C. in Oconto County, WI. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff have more than 15 years of experience, and they offer everything from general dentistry to cosmetic services and emergency appointments. Call (920) 846-3163 or visit the website for information on their services and top-notch diagnostic technology. Text JOIN to (920) 249-5938 to opt-in to the Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., L.L.C. text messaging list.