Dental care is important at every stage of life, but did you know that it becomes even more important to take care of your pearly whites as you age? Your oral health has a direct effect on the health of the rest of your body, so remember to brush at least twice a day and schedule regular cleanings to keep heart disease, gum disease, dry mouth and more at bay.
Dry Mouth
A problem that many seniors face, dry mouth is often a side effect of medication. While you may think this uncomfortable feeling is your mouth is just a small nuisance, it can actually lead to bigger problems. Saliva protects against tooth decay, controls the bacteria in your mouth and helps you to swallow, which means dry mouth can have a lot of negative effects on your well being.
One in every three seniors faces dry mouth, so talk to your doctor to see if medications can be made and visit your dentist regularly to keep your teeth clean and healthy while you search for a solution.
Periodontal Disease
The most common cause of tooth loss in seniors, periodontal disease is an infection in the gums caused by plaque and bacteria. Extremely painful, but preventable, the best way to avoid periodontal disease is to brush and floss daily, and to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings. Periodontal disease can increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes and more, so if your teeth are in need of some extra TLC, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Brushing Routine
From arthritis pain to difficultly walking, there are many troubles seniors face that can make brushing harder. An electric toothbrush can do most of the brushwork for you, and you can also make some changes to your bathroom to make getting about easier.
BEK Medical offers a wide range of products to assist with all your bathroom needs, including grab bars, doorknob grips and foot stools. Shop with us online or visit one of our two Texas stores today.
