Maintaining a healthy month can be a major concern as you age and can become increasingly difficult with mobility and dexterity issues. In fact, 14.6% of Virginians over the age of 65 have complete tooth loss. And studies show seniors with good dental hygiene are more likely to have better health.
So, how can you make sure that you continue to have healthy teeth as you age?
Make sure you get proper dental care at every age. In-home caregivers can help make sure that seniors make it to regular dental visits and keep up a proper oral hygiene routine. They are also particularly helpful to seniors with mobility issues. They can aid them with brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash. In addition, in-home caregivers can prepare foods that promote healthy living and good oral health.
Good dental hygiene in nursing homes is also vitally important. Through collaboration between dentists and nursing homes, seniors are able to receive treatment and regular dental checkups. This is extremely beneficial because it eliminates the senior’s need to travel to and from the dentist’s office. Coming to the patient helps seniors feel more comfortable with their dentist and the procedures that need to be done.
Whether considering in-home care or moving into a care facility, you should be sure to research the dental care options, because, at every age, having a healthy mouth is vital to having a healthy body.
