As we age, numerous things change about our mental, physical and dental health. Maintaining good dental hygiene becomes more critical as we age, and it can prevent some of the most common oral health problems that senior citizens face.
The Most Common Senior Oral Health Challenges
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Gum Disease: Gum disease can lead to sensitive, bleeding or irritable gums, and it is found in numerous patient populations from teens to seniors. It can lead to more serious health complications in elderly adults, like infection or tooth loss.
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Thrush: This infection is caused by Candida overgrowth and is sometimes the result of medications or a weak immune system. Thrush should always be taken seriously, as it can progress rapidly.
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Dry Mouth: This condition might sound harmless, but it can have numerous serious health consequences. A reduction in saliva can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of infection.
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Loss of Taste: Some sensory loss is natural as we age, but it can present complications for seniors who are already experiencing a reduction in appetite. A loss of taste can complicate nutrition for seniors.
How to Keep a Healthy Smile as a Senior
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Avoid Tobacco: Smoking cigarettes, pipes or other tobacco products can lead to a broad range of health problems, from lung issues to oral cancer. Avoid all tobacco consumption for optimal oral health.
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Use Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can be a smart investment to reduce bad oral bacteria and guard against gum disease.
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Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Years of research studies have shown that fluoride is not only safe, but also critical in keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Always use a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride to protect your mouth.
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Stay Hydrated: Particularly if you are already dealing with dry mouth, you should make an effort to stay hydrated throughout the day. Drink plenty of water and fluids, and talk with your dentist about any changes to your oral health that you notice. In some cases, dry mouth can be eliminated or lessened by a change in medications.
Explore Medicare Insurance Plans with Ritter Client Services
Ritter Client Services is proud to be Medicare insurance and dental care problem solvers for thousands of patients throughout Central Pennsylvania. There is no cost to use our services and take advantage of our wealth of Medicare program knowledge. To have your Medicare insurance or health insurance questions answered by our knowledgeable team, contact Ritter Client Services today by calling 877-588-7166 (TTY: 711).