Oral Health in Seniors and Anthem Senior Living in Phoenix

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It is important to maintain a good oral health for general health and well-being. It is especially important for senior people. The significance of oral health is commonly overlooked. Oral health involves the mouth where the digestive process starts. Apart from that our smile, smell, taste, touch, processes of swallowing, chewing and speaking without any pain, discomfort or disease depends on a healthy mouth. A great oral health can play a huge role in ensuring good health and well-being regardless of an individual’s age.

If you have senior family members suffering from mobility or memory issues, they would require 24 hours care and support which one can only achieve at an assisted living facility such as the award-winning Anthem Senior Living in Phoenix, AZ. Anthem Senior Living consists of some of the most experienced and compassionate caregivers.

A few changes in oral care is necessary when it comes to oral health of senior people. Some of the factors that can have a negative effect on the health of people with aging includes mouth dryness, use of dentures, gum growth and certain medications. One will have to consult a professional in this regard which may be costly. But preventive maintenance and regular checkups are cost-effective forms of treatments.

Brushing and Flossing- Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly – preferably after every meal – and correctly are good hygiene practices. Use a soft brush with rounded bristles. Choose a size and shape that allow you to reach all the way to your back teeth. Replace your toothbrush every three months. Brush the cheek side, the tongue side and the top of each tooth which will clean every surface of every tooth. A thorough brushing should take two to three minutes. Clean your tongue as well.

Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Floss at least once a day. Floss both sides of every tooth. Don’t forget the backs of your last molars. Move to a new part of the floss as you move from tooth to tooth. Try enlarging the handle with a sponge, several layers of aluminum foil, or a bicycle handle grip if holding a toothbrush poses difficulty for you because of arthritis or any other health condition.

Denture Care– The four main types of dentures include:

1. A fixed bridge (or fixed partial denture).
2. A partial denture (or removable partial denture).
3. Complete dentures.
4. Dental implants.

Clean them every day. Plaque and tartar can build up on false teeth, just like they do on natural teeth. Take them out every night and brush your teeth and gums carefully with a soft toothbrush. Soak them overnight in a special cleaner for false teeth (denture cleanser), in warm water or in a mix of warm water and vinegar (half and half).

Implants are generally treated as a natural tooth. Brush and floss the implant very carefully. Be gentle, but make sure you brush all sides of the implant. Visit your dentist regularly if you’ve false teeth. Dental exams will help you make sure that your natural teeth get good care if you have bridge or implants.

Lifestyle Choices– Avoid healthy lifestyle choices like avoid risk factors, such as tobacco, excessive alcohol intake and unhealthy diets, especially those rich in sugar.

It is very important to see your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and dental exam in order for them to detect any early signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatment.

For more information or to book suite at Anthem Senior Living, get in touch with us for the best experience.