The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research revealed in a survey conducted from 1999 to 2004 that periodontal disease (gum disease) is prevalent among seniors aged 65 and older.

Seniors who are smokers are at a higher risk of developing severe gum problems. The research is proof that proper dental care is vital at any age, but especially during the senior years when oral health is most sensitive.

To prevent periodontal disease and other problems that might require emergency dental care, you or your senior family member should follow certain oral health practices.

 Tips for Elderly Dental Care

 Brush your teeth and floss regularly

It is recommended that you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste two times a day. Be sure to do the brushing for at least two minutes, and be gentle. If you brush too hard, you might hurt your gums.

Flossing at least once a day is also an important dental care practice. Proper use of dental floss will help remove hard-to-reach food particles wedged between the teeth’ spaces.

Take in Calcium is an essential nutrient that contributes to bone and teeth health. A person who does not have enough calcium can develop osteoporosis, leading to teeth loss when the jaw bone is affected. It is vital, therefore, for seniors to include calcium-rich food in their diet.

According to the American Dental Association, seniors need an average calcium intake of 1,000 milligrams per day. You can get significant amounts of this nutrient from dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli.

Besides calcium, it would help if you also had enough vitamin D in your diet as it is essential for the proper absorption of calcium-rich food.

 Minimize sugar intake

Stay away from sweets that are rich in starch or starchy ingredients as this will destroy your teeth. If you eat or drink anything sweet, be sure to brush your teeth and floss afterward.

 Stop smoking

As mentioned earlier, seniors who smoke are more prone to periodontal disease than non-smokers. Quitting may be challenging, but it’s well worth it because staying away from all forms of tobacco will protect you from gum disease and other dental problems.

Besides following the tips above, it would be best to visit your dentist every six months.

About the Author

Dr. Gary Salwin leads the Glendale Dental Group, Arizona. He and his team treat dental emergencies and perform a whole range of dental services. He has been practicing dentistry for more than 36 years.

The post Guest Blog: Dental Care Tips for the Elderly appeared first on Senior Care Central.

1. Introduction to Oral Health

An increase in education about oral health, as well as better access to toothbrushes, fluoride toothpaste and floss, have led to more older adults retaining their original teeth. However, as you age, your teeth and gums require a little extra attention. Read on to learn about how to care for your teeth after 55.

2. Oral Health Challenges in Aged People

– Dry mouth
Hormonal changes and many medications contribute to reduced saliva production resulting in dry mouth. Dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by allowing bacteria to breed more easily and can also lead to difficulty speaking and eating, fungal infections and problems wearing dentures.

– Attrition
Attrition refers to general wear and tear on teeth that occurs as you age. Years of chewing and grinding wears down tooth enamel increasing the risk of cavities.

– Diseases
Older adults over the age of 55 years old have an increased risk of developing thrush, a fungal infection of the mouth, as well as oral cancers.

– Root Decay
Gums can recede as you age exposing the base of the tooth to bacteria which can decay your teeth from the roots.

3. Common Conditions Found in Aged of 55+

Even with a good oral care routine, adults over the age of 55 years old have an increased risk of developing some problems with their teeth and gums. Some common conditions include:

• Darkened teeth which is often due to enamel erosion and changes in the dentine inside the teeth, but can also be caused by regular consumption of dark foods and beverages.
• A reduced sense of taste which may be due to the side effects of some medications but can also be caused by dentures.
• Gum disease which is most often caused by plaque build-up but can also be caused by cancer, anaemia and diabetes.
• Misaligned jawbone as a result of tooth extraction or loss without replacing the missing teeth which lets remaining teeth drift.

4. What Can You Do to Maintain Your Oral Health?

To keep your natural teeth strong and bright for many years to come, there are several ways you can protect your teeth and gums.

– Increase Fluoride
Fluoride is present in most drinking water and in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash. Increasing your use of fluoride can help to protect your teeth from cavities by helping to remineralise your teeth after acid wear.

– Eliminate Tobacco Chewing
Tobacco chewing has been linked with several negative oral health issues including cavities and discolouration. But quitting tobacco can be a challenge. Talk to your doctor about resources to help you quit and make an appointment with your dentist in Southend for a tooth whitening treatment for a brighter smile.

– Increase Oral Hydration
Staying hydrated is a great way to combat dry mouth as a result of medication. Keep a water bottle close by and sip throughout the day. You can also improve your oral hydration by chewing sugarless gum and limiting your intake of alcohol.

– Antibacterial Wash
Improve your oral health by reducing the build-up of plaque with antibacterial wash. Swish a small amount of alcohol-free mouthwash in your mouth after brushing at night.

5. Conclusion

With proper oral care your teeth and gums will last your lifetime but take extra care of your teeth after the age of 55. If you interested in learning more about how your oral health changes as you age, call your local dentist for an appointment.

Author bio:
Located on the Southchurch Road, Parmar Dental is a multi-award winning
Southend Orthodontics offering high standard and quality dental treatments that
patients always expect. Parmar Dental provides dental care in a very relaxed and
tranquil environment, where each visit would be a unique experience for their
patients.

The post Dental Care Tips for the Elderly People of Age 55+ appeared first on Senior Care Central.

There is no argument about one thing – brushing is important when you have dental braces. Without proper oral care, you may face issues like tooth decay or cavities. If you do notice a cavity, there is a way to naturally reverse the decay and heal the teeth. Let’s see how you can do that.

6 Ways to Naturally Reverse and Heal Decayed Teeth

• Make Changes in Diet

You can reverse tooth decay by making a few changes in your diet. Some adjustments include:

• Limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks as the sugars can cause plaque and cavities.
• Consume more calcium-rich foods such as broccoli and dairy to strengthen the teeth.

• Add Vitamins and Supplements in the Diet

Certain vitamins help in producing saliva. This, in turn, prevents the bacteria from staying on the teeth. Some vitamins also help in making the teeth stronger. Adding nutritious food to the diet can heal your teeth naturally.

Foods that promote salivation include peas, bananas, and brussels sprouts. Take supplements of Vitamin B, D, iron, and magnesium if you cannot get them from your diet. Eating whole-grain foods and seafood can give the required dose of nutrients and improve oral health.

• Practice Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene practices help in protecting the teeth from early decay. Also make sure to follow to follow a strict oral hygiene routine when you have braces.

• Brush twice a day to remove food particles stuck in the teeth and to keep them clean.
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food that gets stuck under the gums and brackets
• Use a mouthwash to get rid of bacteria in the mouth

• Maintain Necessary pH Levels in the Mouth

Our teeth stay healthy in an alkaline environment. As soon as the pH levels start to dip below the neutral 7, our teeth will start to break down and demineralize.

When there is pH imbalance, it can create an environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. Avoid foods that can cause pH imbalance such as coffee, citrus fruits or sugars.

Use a remineralizing toothpaste as it can increase the pH level of the mouth and strengthen the tooth enamel.

• Consume Natural Probiotics

Bad bacteria that cause infection search for smaller areas in the teeth to hide. They would decrease the pH value of the mouth as well. Probiotics help in offsetting the acidic pH in the mouth. Consume foods that arerich in probiotics such as curd, kombucha or sauerkraut.

These foods stimulate the production of healthy bacteria in the mouth. This further helps in preventing plaque buildup or decaying of teeth.

• Oil Pulling

This is a simple yet very effective detoxification process for teeth care that includes swishing oil in your mouth for a few minutes. This technique can prevent plaque buildup and gum diseases like gingivitis. Do not swallow the oil and rinse with warm saltwater after swishing. Follow this by brushing your teeth.

Though these natural methods can be very effective, remember that everyone responds differently to these methods. You must also visit your orthodontist regularlyto make sure there are no dental problems.

Author Bio:

Dr. Satish Pai is an orthodontist and an Ivy League trained dentist who has and has served as a faculty at Columbia University. He believes that a perfect smile not only makes a person look great but feel great. As the founder of Putnam Orthodontics and a Partner at Rome Orthodontics, he is dedicated to providing the best orthodontic treatments to his patients. He also writes to educate people about everything orthodontics and the importance of correctly aligned teeth along with good oral health. In his free time, you can find him golfing, doing yoga or surfing, and spending time with his family.

The post Guest Blog: 6 Effective Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay Naturally appeared first on Senior Care Central.

Dentures are a way to restore a senior’s self-confidence and allows them to eat food
normally again. For seniors and loved ones caring for seniors, proper cleaning and
care of dentures is an important part of a senior’s daily routine. With good oral
hygiene practices, storage, and regular check-ups with your dentist, you can ensure
your dentures and healthy smile last you many years.

Introduction to Dentures
Missing teeth can lead to a variety of health conditions, including accelerated tooth
decay of neighbouring teeth, and bone loss in the jaw. For seniors, missing teeth can
also interfere with speech, eating, and nearby teeth can shift out of alignment. In
some cases, all of the teeth need to be extracted and replaced.
Complete dentures replace the entire upper or bottom arches of teeth, while partial
dentures replace one or a few missing teeth.
Dentures are acrylic, metal, or nylon replacements for missing teeth. Partial dentures
clip to your natural teeth, while full dentures fit over your gums to stay in place.

When Are Dentures Necessary?
Full and partial dentures may not be the ideal solution for everyone. For those with
one or more missing teeth, dental bridges may be a viable option. However, fixed
dental bridges are permanently cemented in place, so you must maintain impeccable
dental hygiene to make them last. This is one of several reasons to consider
removable full or partial dentures. At St Albans Dental Practice, we design a custom-
fit solution to restore your smile.

Denture Care Tips
Proper care for dentures and your personal oral hygiene is vital. This keeps your
dentures functional, visibly appealing, and free from stains. If taken care of properly,
dentures can last for many years. Here are some useful tips to keep your dentures in
great condition:
● Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
It is important to take good care of your natural teeth as well as your dentures. When
you remove your dentures, clean your tongue, cheeks, remaining teeth and gums
with a soft-bristled brush. This can keep your mouth healthy and guard against
odour.
● How to Clean Your Dentures
Each time you eat, it is a good idea to remove your dentures and rinse them with
water. Remember to be extremely careful when handling your dentures. According to
the Mayo Clinic, you may use a towel or some water in the sink to ensure the
dentures won’t break if they are accidentally dropped during cleaning. Gently clean
your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once daily to remove food
particles and debris. Soak dentures overnight in water and a denture-soaking
solution. This keeps them bacteria-free and prevents them from drying out,
maintaining their shape.

● Eating with Dentures
The ability to enjoy a greater variety of foods is one of the greatest benefits of getting
dentures. However, learning to eat with them usually takes time and practice. If your
dentures are new, it is common to feel discomfort while eating. Many patients find it
easier to keep a softer diet such as mashed potatoes, gelatin, pudding, yoghurt and
smoothies during the first few weeks. As your diet becomes more solid, it helps to
cut your food into smaller pieces. Over time and with practice, you will be able to
enjoy your favourite foods again.
● How to Remove Dentures
Denture removal should be done with great care, using a gentle rocking motion. This
process will also take a bit of time to perfect. Never use anything other than your
fingers to remove your dentures. Place your finger between the upper denture and
your cheek and press down gently where the denture meets the gums. Always try to
use even pressure to loosen your denture.

When to Visit Your Dentist
Book regular appointments with your dentist to have your dentures examined and
cleaned professionally. Your dentures should feel secure. Schedule an appointment
if they feel loose or click when you speak. Often discomfort is also a sign that
something is wrong. Natural changes to your bone structure will eventually make it
necessary to make adjustments. If your dentures are visibly worn, it may be time to
get them replaced.

Author Bio:
High Oaks Dental Practice is a Private and NHS Dentist in St Albans. Using
the latest technologies, High Oaks Dental provides wide range of dental treatments
with all the comfort and caring manner. To achieve a confident smile, visit our
website or call us on 01727 893 430.

The post Guest Blog: Dentures & Denture Care: Instructions and Tips for Seniors appeared first on Senior Care Central.

A perfect smile with pearly teeth can be a real confidence booster. However, as you age, you might experience teeth discoloration. Therefore, it becomes important to understand what causes the discoloration of teeth in the elderly and what you can do about it.

Tooth Discoloration in Seniors

Teeth naturally are not perfectly white, and the color may vary from person to person. It ranges typically from white gray to light yellow in hue. However, in rare cases, it may be a bit more yellow or brownish despite good dental health. This visible color is of tooth enamel. It is the hard substance that protects the underlying delicate tissue of the tooth.

Enamel is the hardest substance in the body and shields the teeth. The purpose of enamel is to protect the surface of the teeth from erosion or stains. It further defends the teeth from sensitivity caused by very hot or cold foods and drinks.

As you age, the outer layer of the enamel on your teeth gets worn out to reveal the natural yellow color of dentin. Since the enamel does not have living cells, once damaged, it cannot grow back. Other than aging, there are other factors that contribute to tooth discoloration in seniors. Here are some of them:

1. Disease and medication
A number of diseases and treatments, including procedures like chemotherapy and radiation, can affect the teeth color. In addition, infections may also cause the natural teeth color to fade. Medications like tetracycline, doxycycline, antihistamines, and drugs for hypertension are also known to cause teeth discoloration.
2. Poor dental hygiene
Not brushing the teeth properly and skipping flossing can lead to yellow teeth as it will allow plaque to develop.
3. Foods, drinks, and tobacco
Certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, wine, fruits, and vegetables can lead to teeth stains.
4. Excessive fluoride
Use of excessive fluoride, often found in teeth whitening products like toothpaste or mouthwash can cause yellowing of teeth.
5. Genes
Genetics can also be a major factor. Some people have more yellow tooth color than others, while others have thinner enamel.

How to treat discoloration in old age

Enamel, once destroyed, cannot be repaired. Therefore, the first thing you can practice is prevention. Nevertheless, teeth discoloration with age is unpreventable. Some of the treatments to get rid of teeth stains are mentioned below.
– Practice good dental hygiene and brush your teeth properly.
– Avoid foods or drinks that may cause staining.
– You may consult your dentist and consider bondings or veneers to hide or remove yellow teeth.
– Your dentist may be able to help you through teeth whitening procedures.
– Over-the-counter whitening agents can be the saviors in some cases.

Author Bio: Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD, runs a successful dental practice in Salem, MA. As the founder of Coral Dental Care, she is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for her patients and also to educating dental and non-dental community with her engaging articles on all things related to oral health, recent dental innovations, and latest treatment modalities.

The post Guest Blog: Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Discoloration in Seniors appeared first on Senior Care Central.

There is no argument about one thing – brushing is important when you have dental braces. Without proper oral care, you may face issues like tooth decay or cavities. If you do notice a cavity, there is a way to naturally reverse the decay and heal the teeth. Let’s see how you can do that.

1. Make Changes in Diet

You can reverse tooth decay by making a few changes in your diet. Some adjustments include:

• Limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks as sugars can cause plaque and cavities.
• Consume more calcium-rich foods such as broccoli and dairy to strengthen the teeth.

2. Add Vitamins and Supplements to the Diet

Certain vitamins help in producing saliva. This, in turn, prevents the bacteria from staying on the teeth. Some vitamins also help in making the teeth stronger. Adding nutritious food to the diet can heal your teeth naturally.

Foods that promote salivation include peas, bananas, and brussels sprouts. Take supplements of Vitamin B, D, iron, and magnesium if you cannot get them from your diet. Eating whole-grain foods and seafood can give the required dose of nutrients and improve oral health.

3. Practice Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene practices help in protecting the teeth from early decay. Also, make sure to follow a strict oral hygiene routine when you have braces.

• Brush twice a day to remove food particles stuck in the teeth and to keep them clean.
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food that gets stuck under the gums and brackets
• Use a mouthwash to get rid of bacteria in the mouth

4. Maintain Necessary pH Levels in the Mouth

Our teeth stay healthy in an alkaline environment. As soon as the pH levels start to dip below the neutral 7, our teeth will start to break down and demineralize.

When there is a pH imbalance, it can create an environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. Avoid foods that can cause pH imbalance such as coffee, citrus fruits or sugars.

Use a remineralizing toothpaste as it can increase the pH level of the mouth and strengthen the tooth enamel.

5. Consume Natural Probiotics

Bad bacteria that cause infection search for smaller areas in the teeth to hide. They would decrease the pH value of the mouth as well. Probiotics help in offsetting the acidic pH in the mouth. Consume foods that are rich in probiotics such as curd, kombucha or sauerkraut.

These foods stimulate the production of healthy bacteria in the mouth. This further helps in preventing plaque build-up or decaying of teeth.

6. Oil Pulling

This is a simple yet very effective detoxification process for teeth care that includes swishing oil in your mouth for a few minutes. This technique can prevent plaque build-up and gum diseases like gingivitis. Do not swallow the oil and rinse with warm saltwater after swishing. Follow this by brushing your teeth.

Though these natural methods can be very effective, remember that everyone responds differently to these methods. You must also visit your orthodontist regularly to make sure there are no dental problems.

Author Bio:

Dr. Satish Pai is an orthodontist and an Ivy League trained dentist who has served as a faculty at Columbia University. He believes that a perfect smile not only makes a person look great but feel great. As the founder of Putnam Orthodontics and a Partner at Rome Orthodontics, he is dedicated to providing the best orthodontic treatments to his patients. He also writes to educate people about everything orthodontics and the importance of correctly aligned teeth along with good oral health. In his free time, you can find him golfing, doing yoga or surfing, and spending time with his family.

The post Guest Blog: 6 Ways to Naturally Reverse and Heal Decayed Teeth appeared first on Senior Care Central.