Best Dentist Penang List this Out

The state of one’s mouth has a direct impact on one’s general health and quality of life. According to the American Dental Association, dental illness is a frequent cause of medical and emergency department visits. Medications and prevalent chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, increase the risk of dental issues in seniors.

 

Nonetheless, in the United States, access to senior dental care remains a challenge. Dental benefits end when you retire, and Medicare does not cover normal dental treatment. Missed dentist visits and poor oral health might be caused by a lack of transportation, age-related memory loss, other cognitive issues, and physical impairments.

 

Toothaches, gum disease, and tooth loss may all be avoided with proper senior dental care. Healthy teeth also make it easier for elderly people to consume and enjoy their meals. Learn why dental health is so essential for elders and how you can assist your elderly loved one improve their oral health.

 

7 reasons why senior dental care should be a top consideration

 

Tooth rotting is a common problem.

 

Plaque, which is created by bacteria, damages the enamel of the teeth and creates cavities. Dry mouth is one of the reasons why elderly people are more likely to have cavities. Saliva protects teeth and lowers germs, but dry mouth is a negative effect of several medicines often used by seniors, such as antidepressants, asthma medications, and high blood pressure medications.

 

Gum disease

 

is a condition that affects the teeth and gums According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two out of every three seniors aged 65 and above has gum disease (CDC). Periodontitis, or severe gum disease, may cause painful, bleeding gums, chewing issues, and tooth loss, among other health issues. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware that they have gum disease since symptoms do not appear until the condition has progressed. Gum disease may be avoided with good geriatric dental care and frequent dental checkups.

 

Tooth loss

 

is prevalent among the elderly. According to the CDC, one in every five persons aged 65 and over has lost all of their teeth. Tooth loss may have a negative impact on nutrition because seniors without teeth may be unable to consume or enjoy fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables.

 

Heart disease

 

is a serious condition. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum disease causes inflammation, which raises the risk of heart disease. Gum disease may exacerbate some cardiac diseases and is linked to an increased risk of stroke.

 

Diabetes.

 

Dental issues, such as inflammation and gum disease, are more likely in those who have poor blood sugar management. This is due to the fact that too much glucose (sugar) in saliva promotes the growth of germs in the mouth. Gum disease seems to have an impact on blood sugar regulation in diabetics.

 

Pneumonia.

 

Bacterial pneumonia is more likely in older persons who have poor oral hygiene, particularly if they smoke. This is because germs in the mouth may migrate to the lungs when someone breathes. In senior persons who are unable to care for themselves, maintaining excellent oral hygiene may help reduce the incidence of this kind of pneumonia.

 

Oral cancer

 

is a disease that affects the mouth. Oral cancer is more common in older people. People who chew tobacco or smoke cigarettes, pipes, or cigars are at a greater risk. Regular dental visits may aid in the early detection of issues.

 

How can elders’ oral health be improved?

 

You can assist an older loved one maintain excellent oral health by doing the following steps:

 

Remind your loved one to use fluoride toothpaste twice a day.

 

Dental hygiene may be made simpler with the use of a soft, electric toothbrush.

 

If your parent is prone to forgetfulness, assist them in creating reminders. It’s critical to keep your mouth and teeth clean if you’re caring for someone who can’t keep their teeth clean.

 

Remind your parent to floss at least once a day.

 

Flossing every day helps to keep plaque and gum disease at bay. If your loved one has difficulty flossing, speak to the dentist about other equipment or approaches.

 

Maintain the cleanliness of your dentures.

 

Remind your parent to clean their dentures on a regular basis and to take them out at night.

 

Visit the dentist on a regular basis.

 

Visiting the dentist on a regular basis might help you avoid dental issues and keep your teeth healthy. The American Dental Association suggests seeing the dentist for a cleaning and check-up at least once a year.

 

Inform the dentist about your loved one’s medical problems and medicines.

 

If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may be able to help you find solutions.

 

Encourage your loved one to consume a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate diet

 

-to avoid tooth decay and other health issues.

 

Encourage your senior loved one to quit smoking.

 

Quitting smoking is tough, but it may help reduce your chance of developing a variety of health issues. Your loved one’s doctor may be able to help them stop using techniques or drugs.

 

Your loved one’s oral health and hygiene may indicate that he or she needs assistance with everyday chores. Consider assisted living, where professionals can help with grooming, clothing, medication management, and more, while also offering a variety of social events and engagement opportunities.

 

Learn more about dental services for senior: best dentist in penang 

 

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