Seniors and Oral Health | South Barrington Dentist

October 2024

As we age, so do our teeth, and it becomes increasingly important to maintain their strength and health. Seniors face a higher risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease, which makes routine dental care essential. At Poldek Family Dental, we’re committed to helping seniors maintain their oral health. In addition to regular dental exams, here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy as you grow older.

Keep a Routine

No matter your age, maintaining a consistent daily oral hygiene routine is critical. Seniors should continue to brush twice a day and floss at least once daily. If you wear dentures, it’s important to remove them for at least four hours a day—preferably at night—and clean them daily as part of your routine. Staying hydrated is also key. Drinking water not only promotes saliva production, which helps protect enamel, but fluoride in water can also strengthen your teeth. Regular visits to our dentist in South Barrington should be part of this routine to ensure your oral health stays in check.

Tips for Caregivers

If you’re a caregiver for a senior, helping them maintain their oral health can be challenging but necessary. Establishing a routine and setting specific times for brushing and flossing can be helpful. As a caregiver, you should also ensure your loved one keeps regular dental appointments. If maintaining daily dental care becomes difficult, contact our office for advice and solutions. We are here to support both you and your loved one.

Financial Assistance

Seniors living in nursing homes who are enrolled in state or national financial programs may benefit from the Incurred Medical Expense (IME) regulation, as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). This regulation helps cover the cost of necessary dental care. If our dentist in South Barrington determines that treatment is needed, this program can ease the financial burden. For more details, speak with the nursing home’s caseworker about available options.

Don’t Forget About Gum Health

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is common among seniors and can be exacerbated by certain medications. It’s essential to inform our dental team of any changes in medications during your visits. Gum disease can develop without noticeable pain, which is why regular dental exams are crucial. According to the ADA, more than 47% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of chronic periodontitis, making routine dental care more important than ever.

Maintaining your oral health as you age can be challenging, but sticking to a daily brushing and flossing routine, along with regular dental visits, is key to preventing issues. Caregivers should also ensure that their elderly loved ones receive the dental care they need to stay healthy.

For more tips on senior oral care or to schedule your next appointment, contact Poldek Family Dental today. We’re here to help keep your smile healthy for years to come!

Poldek Family Dental
Email: pfdinfo@gmail.com
Phone: (630)497-9787
Url: http://poldekfamilydental.com/
100 W Higgins Rd Bldg L., Unit 75
South Barrington, IL 60010