One of the most important things seniors can do to protect their health is to protect their teeth. Dental decay and bacteria in the mouth can lead to dental infections, which can travel to other parts of the body and make seniors very sick.
Many people don’t realize that untreated dental infections can damage the heart, lungs, and pancreas and damage gums and teeth. Seniors with natural teeth should do everything possible to protect them, and in-home care providers can help when dental hygiene is difficult for them.
Dentists recommend that seniors do these 10 things to prevent dental infections and protect their teeth:
Brush Twice A Day
Seniors should brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing helps remove plaque and prevent cavities and gum disease. Seniors who have a hard time brushing their teeth because they can’t easily hold a toothbrush should have the help from an in-home care agency.
Get Professional Dental Cleanings
Seniors should get professional dental cleaning at least once a year. Your senior parent’s dentist may recommend that they get a dental cleaning twice a year to help them prevent dental infections. If you can’t take your senior parent to a dental cleaning appointment and don’t drive, in-home care providers can ensure your senior parent gets to the dentist.
Use An Antibacterial Mouthwash
Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth to prevent infections. Seniors who use a high-quality mouthwash will also have fresher breath and healthier gums. A good antibacterial mouthwash is another line of defense against plaque and dental decay.
Drink More Water
Drinking plenty of water helps keep the mouth moist and washes away food particles and bacteria. It also can help reduce dry mouth, which will protect the teeth. Encourage your senior parent to drink at least eight glasses of water each day.
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking or using smokeless tobacco increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, and other oral health problems. There are many reasons why seniors shouldn’t smoke. Protecting their teeth is one of the best reasons to quit.
Limit Sugary Foods
Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Seniors should avoid processed foods with a lot of added sugar and sweetened drinks. Healthy, unprocessed foods and water are the best things for seniors to eat and drink. In-home care providers can help ensure that seniors have tasty and nutritious food that isn’t packed with sugar.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. Seniors should eat more foods high in calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D to protect their teeth and boost their overall health.
Clean Dentures Thoroughly
Seniors who wear dentures need to make sure their dentures are properly cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis. If dentures aren’t kept clean, the bacteria that build up on them could cause dental infections or gum disease.
Try To Avoid Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common problem among seniors and can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If they regularly experience dry mouth, seniors can try chewing gum or candy, drinking more water, or talking to their doctor about switching their medication.
Get Dentures Refitted
Seniors should get their dentures refitted at regular intervals. Over time, dentures can shift or become uncomfortable because of changes in their fit. Getting the dentures refitted on a regular basis will ensure that they fit the way they are supposed to and don’t cause irritations or cuts.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care in San Diego, CA, please contact the caring staff at La Jolla Nurses Homecare today. Call (858) 454-9339
La Jolla Nurses Homecare is a top provider of home care services in San Diego, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carmel Valley, Point Loma, Bankers Hill, Mission Hills, Kensington, Coronado, University City, Pacific Beach, and all of San Diego County.
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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