Reasons Senior Dental Care Is Important
As people get older medical conditions like diabetes, heart problem, arthritis become common. Also, visits to the emergency room become regular. However, dental care tends to be overlooked in most cases. This is partly because some think dental care benefits cease as soon as you retire. Moreover, most people do not know that dental neglect can lead to severe health conditions.
Another challenge that makes many seniors not get dental care as they should is due to mobility problems. It is difficult for most to visit dentists, which may even be a burden to their families.
Below are some reasons why senior dental care is essential:
To Deal With Teeth Loss
Tooth loss is common with older adults, and while some may brush it off as prevalent at that age, it has some adverse effects on seniors. For a start, tooth loss affects their nutrition since they may not eat the hard foods, which are the common foods. This may affect the digestion system due to not well-chewed food.
Remember, the digestion system at this age is slowing down, and any change may mean bloating and stomach discomforts. Moreover, Some teeth may break off and leave the root inside the gum, which is risky for their health. It is also painful when it comes to removal. If a tooth comes off when they are eating, they may swallow it, which is also risky for their health.
Poor Dental Care Can Cause Health Problems
Seniors with high sugar levels like those with diabetic persons often suffer inflammation and gum diseases. The high sugar level in the saliva makes a suitable environment for bacteria to grow in the mouth. Gum disease also interferes with blood flow in the body. Unfortunately, Gum inflammation increases the risk of heart-related problems. If you or your elderly parent has an existing heart problem, gum disease can make it worse, and you stand the chance of stroke.
To Minimize the Risk of Oral Cancer
Even though everyone is at risk of contracting oral cancer, it is higher among older people if there is a lack of proper dental care. It is especially so for those who chew tobacco or smoke it. Regular check-ups by a dentist are best to catch cancer early, plus a dentist gives you advice on dental self-care.
To Prevent Respiratory Problems
Older adults may sometimes neglect taking care of their dental hygiene if not well supervised. Bacteria can be transferred from the mouth to the lungs during breathing. Observing proper dental hygiene and regular check-up may reduce the risk of respiratory diseases.…