Dental care for elderly in nursing homes in California (CA) is necessary for our elderly population. As people get old, the risk of oral health problems increases. It is therefore important for their care providers to ensure that they are getting appropriate care to avoid the following complications.
Darkened teeth
Darkened teeth are caused by changes in dentin. This is the bone-like tissue underlying the enamel. Darkened teeth can be caused by a lifetime of consumption of stain-causing beverages and foods. It can also be caused by thinning of the enamel layer that lets the dark yellow dentin show through. Darkened teeth may be a sign of serious problems and it is important to be checked by a dentist as soon as possible.
Dry mouth
Dry mouth is usually caused by a reduced flow of saliva in the mouth which can be as a result of radiation cancer treatments. Other types of medicines can cause dry mouth.
Reduced sense of taste
Advancing age impairs an individual’s sense of taste but medications, diseases and dentures can also contribute to a diminished sense of taste.
Root decay
This problem is usually caused by the exposure of the root to decay-causing acids. The roots of the tooth become exposed as gum tissue recedes from the tooth. Teeth roots don’t have any enamel to protect them. They are more prone to decay compared to the crown.
Gum disease
Gum disease is usually caused by plaque. It can be made worse by tobacco use, food left in teeth, poor fittings of dentures and bridges, certain diseases such as anemia, cancer and diabetes and so on.
Tooth loss
Tooth loss requires prompt dental care for elderly in nursing homes since it can greatly affect someone’s quality of life. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss.
While age is not dominant in determining oral health of an individual, certain medical conditions associated with old age such as fingers and arthritis may make flossing or brushing of teeth difficult or impossible to perform. The use of drugs can also affect oral health.
Oral hygiene tips
Seniors should be educated and guided about proper oral hygiene to mitigate some of the most common oral health problems associated with seniors. Daily flossing and brushing of natural teeth are essential to keeping the elderly in good oral health. Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque can build up quickly on the teeth, especially if someone’s oral hygiene is neglected. This can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. To maintain good oral health, it is crucial for people to brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning, rinse with an antiseptic liquid mouthwash at least once a day.
A dental exam for seniors
A regular dental exam is part of the best dental care for elderly in nursing homes CA best practices. If you are a senior going for a checkup, you should expect your dentist to check your neck and face for moles, skin discoloration, and sores. Your dentist will also check your jaw, bite, lymph nodes, inner cheeks, tongue and other surfaces of your mouth.