Oral Health and the Aging Process
(Continued)
What can seniors do to ensure good oral health as they progress through the stages of aging?
- Schedule and keep regular dental appointments.
- Tell your dental health professional about any new over-the-counter and prescribed medications.
- Provide your dental health professional with updated information about your overall physical health.
- Provide the status of your oral health, especially if you have gum disease, to your medical care provider.
- If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, get treated.
- Reduce your risk factors . . . smoking, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle.
- Ask your hygienist to set out a preventive plan, including control of root decay, relief of dry mouth, recommendation of toothpaste and the addition of an electric toothbrush.
- Take care not to transmit tooth decay and periodontal infection through regular oral health routines.
Once you know the difference between what’s normal and what’s not, the aging process will become more comfortable for you and you become an active partner in maintaining both your dental health and your complete body wellness.