As we age, our oral health needs change. For adults over 60 in Twin Falls and the surrounding Magic Valley area, maintaining a healthy smile requires special attention and care. At Summit Dental Care, we understand the unique challenges seniors face with their dental health. That’s why we’ve put together these seven essential tips to help you keep your smile bright and healthy throughout your golden years.
1. Keep Dry Mouth at Bay
Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it can lead to serious dental problems. As we age, we enter a second round of cavity-prone years, with dry mouth being a common culprit. While dry mouth is not a normal part of aging, it is a side effect of more than 500 medications, including those for allergies, asthma, high blood pressure, cholesterol, pain, anxiety, depression, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Here’s how to combat dry mouth:
- Sip water frequently throughout the day
- Use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production
- Consider using over-the-counter oral moisturizers (sprays or rinses)
- Talk to your doctor about adjusting medications that may be causing dry mouth
- Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes, which can worsen the condition
- Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air
Remember, saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against decay, so maintaining adequate moisture is essential for preventing cavities.
2. Practice Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Brushing and flossing become even more important as we age, but they may also become more challenging due to physical limitations.
Adapting Your Routine
- Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Consider using an electric toothbrush, which requires less manual dexterity
- If you have arthritis or limited mobility, try modified toothbrush handles with Velcro straps or bicycle handlebar grips to improve your grip
- Use floss holders or interdental brushes if traditional flossing is difficult
- Set a timer or play a favorite song to ensure you brush for a full two minutes
Good oral hygiene is your first defense against gum disease and tooth decay, which become more common as we age.
3. Address Gum Health Proactively
Gum disease is a major concern for seniors and a leading cause of tooth loss. About two in three adults aged 65 years or older have gum disease, which begins as gingivitis with swollen, red, or bleeding gums and can progress to periodontitis if left untreated.
Warning signs to watch for include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums (teeth appearing longer)
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together
Regular dental check-ups can catch gum disease early when it’s most treatable. Our family dentistry in Twin Falls provides specialized care for seniors to help prevent and treat gum disease effectively.
4. Watch What You Eat
Your diet affects your oral health at any age, but nutritional choices become even more important for seniors.
Senior-Friendly Food Choices for Dental Health
- Choose calcium-rich foods like low-fat dairy products to strengthen teeth
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables that clean teeth naturally and stimulate saliva
- Limit sugary foods and drinks that feed cavity-causing bacteria
- Opt for lean proteins that contain phosphorus, helping to rebuild tooth enamel
- Stay hydrated with water rather than acidic or sugary beverages
- Consider softer foods if you have missing teeth or dentures, but don’t sacrifice nutrition
Good nutrition supports not just your dental health but your overall wellbeing, which is closely connected to oral health.
5. Manage Medical Conditions That Affect Oral Health
Many health conditions common in seniors can impact your oral health, and vice versa.
Approximately 85 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 60 percent have at least two chronic conditions. People with chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, heart diseases, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be more likely to develop gum disease.
Be especially vigilant about your oral health if you have:
- Diabetes: This condition can increase risk for gum disease, while gum disease can make diabetes harder to control
- Heart disease: Some research suggests a link between gum disease and heart problems
- Osteoporosis: This condition can affect the bone that supports your teeth
- Alzheimer’s disease or dementia: These may make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene routines
Share your complete medical history with your dentist so they can provide appropriate care tailored to your specific health needs.
6. Don’t Skip Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental visits become even more critical as we age. Even if you’re not experiencing any pain or discomfort, it’s important to get dental checkups and exams at least once a year. As you age, the nerves inside your teeth become smaller and less sensitive, meaning by the time you feel pain from a cavity, the damage may be so advanced that you could lose teeth.
During your visit, your dentist will:
- Clean your teeth professionally to remove plaque and tartar
- Check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer
- Evaluate existing dental work like fillings and crowns
- Assess how medications or health conditions might be affecting your oral health
- Recommend personalized preventive care strategies
At Summit Dental Care, we understand that dental anxiety can be a barrier for many seniors. Our compassionate team is committed to making your visit comfortable and stress-free.
7. Understand Your Dental Coverage Options
Many seniors are surprised to learn that Medicare doesn’t cover most routine dental care. Original Medicare limits dental coverage to specific medically related circumstances, so yearly exams, extractions, root canals, and routine cleanings aren’t part of the plan.
However, you have options:
- Medicare Advantage plans often include some dental benefits
- Stand-alone dental insurance policies are available specifically for seniors
- Dental savings plans can provide discounts on various procedures
- Some community health centers offer sliding-scale fees based on income
At Summit Dental Care, we believe dental health shouldn’t be compromised due to financial concerns. We offer financing and insurance options to help make quality dental care accessible for seniors in Twin Falls.
Schedule Your Senior Check-up Today
Maintaining good oral health is an essential part of healthy aging. With the right knowledge, tools, and professional care, you can enjoy a healthy smile well into your golden years.
Our team at Summit Dental Care is dedicated to providing gentle, thorough dental care tailored to the unique needs of our senior patients. From addressing dry mouth concerns to helping you navigate dental coverage options, we’re here to support your oral health journey every step of the way.
Don’t let dental problems diminish your quality of life. Take action today to protect your smile and overall health. Contact our team to schedule your senior dental check-up and experience the Summit Dental Care difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Dental Care
Does Medicare cover routine dental care?
No, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover routine dental care like cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or dentures. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) may cover certain dental services that are necessary as part of a covered procedure or hospital stay, but these instances are limited. Many seniors opt for Medicare Advantage plans or standalone dental insurance to help cover these costs.
How often should seniors visit the dentist?
Seniors should visit the dentist at least once a year for checkups and cleanings, even if they wear dentures or have no natural teeth remaining. Those with chronic conditions like diabetes or who take medications that affect oral health may need more frequent visits, typically every 3-4 months, as recommended by their dentist.
What causes dry mouth in seniors and how can it be treated?
Dry mouth in seniors is most commonly caused by medications rather than aging itself. Over 500 medications list dry mouth as a side effect, including those for high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, and pain. Treatment options include staying well-hydrated, using sugar-free lozenges or gum to stimulate saliva production, over-the-counter saliva substitutes, and speaking with your doctor about possibly adjusting medications.
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If you want the very best in professional dental care call (208) 733-9999 to schedule your appointment today!
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