Geriatric dentistry in nursing homes provides essential dental health services to the elderly. Taking good care of your gums and teeth is important throughout your life. When people are young, they develop healthy habits of daily flossing and brushing to avoid cavities and keep their teeth healthy and white. As people get older, taking care of their teeth remains an important part of their daily health and hygiene routine.
Seniors have special considerations when it comes to their oral health and that is why they should take good care of their teeth. Elderly dental care is very important in maintaining the overall quality of life of seniors as senior citizens are more susceptible to oral conditions that younger people can easily avoid, including decay of teeth and gum disease. We recognize the importance of proper dental care for the elderly and that is why we provide you with some tips for elderly dental care.
Visiting the dentist
It is important for people to regularly schedule visits to dentists. This is crucial for senior dental health and overall health. Infrequent visits to a dentist or no visits at all can allow enough time for problems to get worse and even become more severe.
The elderly should make regular appointments with mobile dentistry in nursing homes for cleaning of their teeth twice a year or as directed by their dentist. Regular appointments with the dentist are one of the most important things you can do for your health. Your dentist should talk to you about the kind of care needed for your teeth and watch out for any conditions that should be diagnosed early before they escalate to serious health issues.
Brush your teeth daily
Dentists and doctors recommend that everyone floss and brush their teeth twice a day. Some dentists advise that patients brush their teeth between meals. Flossing and brushing teeth twice a day should be a well-established routine for a lot of seniors but for those making improvements to oral hygiene routine, making a twice-daily routine practice is a necessity.
A lot of dentists recommend quality electric toothbrushes to improve flossing and brushing techniques. Whether or not you choose to go electric, it is important to change your toothbrush at least every three months. It is also important to ensure you use the bristle strength that is right for you.
A lot of dentists recommend using soft toothbrushes for seniors but for people with certain gum conditions, a hard toothbrush may be recommended. You should ensure you use toothpaste recommended by your dentist. The toothpaste you use should also contain fluoride. Always remember to brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time you brush.
Rinse with mouthwash
Geriatric dentistry in nursing homes should recommend the right mouthwash to use. Using an antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash twice a day is recommended. It is recommended that you brush and floss your teeth and gargle with mouthwash as recommended by your dentist. You should use mouthwash as the last step.