As we age, taking care of our teeth is more critical than ever. Seniors especially need to take care of their teeth and gums to avoid significant problems in the future. Thankfully, caring for their teeth can happen in several ways, especially when they gain support for companion care at home. However, the first thing the support team needs to assess is seniors’ general concerns about their dental hygiene and the dentist in general.

Why Might Seniors Have Difficulty With the Dentist?

Due to their age, seniors may have trouble with different things when they visit the doctor. If they have difficulty moving around or arthritis, it might be hard for them to sit in a dental chair for extended amounts of time. Age-related changes in the brain or anxiety can also make it harder to deal with dental treatments. Many seniors’ medications can cause dry mouth or other problems with their oral health, affecting their general dental health. Also, some seniors, especially those on fixed means, may have trouble paying for dental care. These things can make it hard for adults to get dental care.

Tips For Helping Seniors With Dental Care

Seniors should brush and floss their teeth every day. This is one of the most important things they can do. This will help eliminate the plaque and germs that can cause cavities, gum disease, and other problems with the teeth and gums. Seniors should try brushing their teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. At least once a day, they should floss with a gentle sawing action to get food and plaque out from between their teeth.

Dental checkups are essential. Seniors should attend all checkups at the dentist to find problems early. If they have specific questions or issues, they should call their dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Their companion care at home aid can help them by transporting them to the dentist and encouraging them to write down concerns or call the dentist right away. The home health team can empower seniors in many ways with care and support.

Focus on the whole mouth. Seniors should focus on the whole mouth by avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks and having a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Seniors should also avoid smoking and other tobacco products, which can make gum disease and other mouth health problems more likely. For seniors who are unsure about healthy meal planning, companion care at home can help.

Use the right tools. Lastly, seniors should use tools made to help them keep their teeth healthy. This includes mouthwash, toothpaste, and oral floss targeted for them. Their dentist can provide them with the best options. These items can help strengthen teeth and gums, remove plaque and bacteria, and freshen breath.

Seniors can help keep their teeth healthy and avoid major problems in the future by following these steps. Seniors can have strong, healthy teeth and gums well into their golden years if they brush, floss, go to the dentist regularly and live a healthy lifestyle. Loved ones and their companion care at home team can encourage them to consistently use the right tools and reach out when needed.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring companion care at home in Simpsonville, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116.  Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding area.

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Edward Harrison

Founder at Heart of the Carolinas

Edward Harrison founded the Heart of the Carolinas Homecare in 2007 when he saw there was a need for caregivers that provide non-medical home care services, at a price that most people could afford. It was standard in the industry to require hourly minimums and it was common to be assigned a caregiver, not matched with one based on your individual personal needs. Edward understood that to make a successful relationship between caregiver and client, skills were not enough, personality and compatibility plays as much a role as do skills.

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