Why the Elderly should Floss
Getting older brings a number of challenges for the senior when it comes to maintaining dental health. This increases the need for the elderly dental patient to floss frequently to maintain the health of gums and teeth. Visit visit us website for more details.
Dental Care for Seniors
Teeth age, just like the rest of our bodies. The key to good dental health as one ages is by maintaining good dental hygiene and visits to the dentists. It is important for any senior to achieve optimal results during when seeing a dentist in Warrenton.
Listed below are reasons seniors are more susceptible to gum disease:
Dry mouth is a common cause of gum disease in older patients. This is also referred to as xerostomia and has potential to increase gum related problems. The decrease in saliva causes food particles to remain in the teeth and will allow the build-up of plaque. Medications, which are commonly prescribed to older adults, may contribute to dry mouth. It is important to read the side effects of any prescribed medications. If you experience dry mouth be certain to brush and floss diligently
Aging will cause the gums to recede. The process of daily flossing will work to reduce the recession of the gums.
Osteoporosis is an issue seniors deal with constantly. There is a connection between gum health and osteoporosis. Women may have a greater chance of being diagnosed with osteoporosis and this may increase the chances of periodontal disease.
By flossing once daily and brushing at least twice a day, this will significantly decrease the risk of periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease.
What to Expect at a Dental Exam
Seniors can expect a thorough oral examination at the dental office. The dentist will check all of the items below:
* The bite of the patient which involves how the teeth join when the mouth is opened and closed.
* Signs of any jaw problems, such as clicking or temporomandibular joint disorders.
* The salivary glands and the lymph nodes of the patient will be checked by the dentist in Warrenton.
* The inner cheek of the dental patient which will find any infections or ulcer which may have occurred since the last visit.
* The teeth will be evaluated for any cavities and the current condition of fillings or crowns the dental patient has.
Finally, by visiting Gainesville Dental Associates dental health can be evaluated and improved for people of all ages.
