Maintaining good oral health is vital at any age, but as we get older, unique challenges can arise that require attention. For seniors in Markham, understanding and managing conditions like dry mouth, maintaining dentures properly, and addressing gum recession are key steps towards a comfortable and healthy smile.
At Bur Oak Dental, we understand these unique needs and are here to help you navigate them with comfort and expert care across our three convenient Markham locations.
Understanding Unique Oral Health Challenges for Seniors
Aging can bring about various changes in overall health, many of which can impact your oral health.
Systemic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, as well as the medications taken to manage them, often have side effects that directly affect the mouth.
This is why seniors may experience issues that differ from younger individuals and require tailored oral hygiene practices.
Challenge 1: Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common condition among seniors, often significantly impacting comfort and oral health.
It’s not just an inconvenience; reduced saliva flow increases the risk of cavities, especially on the exposed root surfaces, and can make speaking, eating, and wearing dentures uncomfortable.
Why is it common in seniors?
The primary culprit is often medication. Seniors tend to take more prescriptions, and hundreds of common drugs leading to dry mouth as a side effect, including those for blood pressure, depression, and allergies.
While aging itself doesn’t necessarily cause dry mouth, age-related health conditions and treatments frequently contribute.
Risks Associated with Dry Mouth:
- Increased risk of tooth decay and root cavities.
- Gum disease progression.
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, and tasting.
- Soreness and infections in the mouth.
- Problems with denture retention and comfort.
Practical Management Strategies:
- Stay Hydrated: Sip water frequently throughout the day. Keep a water bottle nearby.
- Stimulate Saliva: Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies, especially those containing xylitol, which can help stimulate saliva flow and protect against cavities.
- Use Humidifiers: Running a humidifier, particularly at night, can help keep your mouth and throat moist.
- Adjust Diet: Limit caffeine, alcohol, and sugary or acidic drinks, as these can be drying or harmful for teeth health. Avoid spicy or salty foods that can cause discomfort.
- Choose the Right Products: Use alcohol-free mouthwash. Look for toothpastes and rinses specifically designed for dry mouth relief or those containing fluoride to help protect teeth. Artificial saliva substitutes (sprays, gels) can provide temporary relief.
- Regular Dental Visits: Your dentist can recommend specific products. Discuss medication side effects with your doctor, and provide fluoride treatments to protect your teeth.
Challenge 2: Denture Care (Full and Partial)
Dentures are a common solution for missing teeth among seniors.
Proper care is essential not just for the longevity and cleanliness of the dentures, but also for the health of the gum and natural teeth.
Neglecting denture hygiene can lead to oral infections, bad breath, and tissue irritation.
Importance of Proper Denture Hygiene:
- Prevents stains and odors.
- Reduces the risk of fungal infections (like thrush) and gum inflammation.
- Helps maintain the fit of the dentures over time.
- Protects remaining natural teeth.
Denture Cleaning Instructions From Dentists
- Remove and Rinse: Always remove your dentures after eating and rinse them under running water to remove food particles. Do this over a towel or basin of water in case you drop them!
- Brush Daily: Use a soft-bristle denture brush (not a regular toothbrush) and a non-abrasive denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive). Gently brush all surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that fits against your gums.
- Soak Daily: Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Most types should be soaked overnight in water or a dentist-recommended denture cleansing solution. Follow the product instructions carefully and rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
- Handle with Care: Never use hot water, which can warp dentures.
- Care for Your Mouth: Even without teeth, it’s crucial to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth daily with a soft brush or gauze to remove plaque and stimulate circulation. If you have partial dentures, brush your remaining natural teeth carefully with fluoride toothpaste.
- Regular Checks: Dentures need to be checked by a dentist or denturist regularly (usually annually) to ensure they fit well and aren’t causing sores or accelerating bone loss. Over time, dentures may need relining or replacement.
Challenge 3: Gum Recession and Gum Health
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth surface, exposing the tooth’s root.
This is a common issue for seniors, often a result of the cumulative effects of gum disease (periodontitis) over time or even overly aggressive brushing.
Why does it affect seniors?
Years of plaque buildup, if not consistently removed, can lead to gum disease, which destroys the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Gum recession is a visible sign of this process.
Consequences of Gum Recession:
- Increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures.
- Higher risk of root decay, as the root surface is softer than enamel.
- Risk of tooth looseness and eventual tooth loss.
- Aesthetic concerns (teeth may look longer).
Managing and Preventing Further Recession:
- Gentle, Effective Brushing: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motion. Avoid scrubbing back and forth vigorously along the gum line.
- Interdental Cleaning is Key: Brushing alone isn’t enough. Clean between your teeth daily using dental floss or interdental brushes to remove plaque from areas toothbrushes can’t reach. This is crucial for preventing gum disease progression.
- Manage Sensitivity: Using a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth can help reduce discomfort caused by exposed roots.
- Professional Cleanings: Regular dental cleanings (scaling and root planing) by a hygienist are essential to remove hardened plaque (calculus) above and below the gum line that you cannot remove at home. This is vital for managing gum disease and preventing further recession.
- Address Bruxism: If teeth grinding (bruxism) is an issue, discuss this with your dentist, as it can contribute to gum problems.
Broader Oral Health Considerations for Seniors
Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease and dry mouth.
Medications for various conditions can have oral side effects.
It’s important to inform your dentist about your full medical history and all medications you are taking.
Regular dental check-ups are more than just cleanings. They allow your dentist to:
- Check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections.
- Screen for oral cancer, which is particularly important with age.
- Assess the fit of dentures or other dental appliances.
- Discuss any changes you’ve noticed and provide tailored advice.
If you are a caregiver assisting a senior with oral hygiene, consistency is key.
Help them establish a routine, ensure they have the right tools (soft brush, appropriate toothpaste), and help them clean their mouth if needed.
Regularly checking their mouth for sores, redness, or unusual changes can also catch problems early.
Dental Care Resources for Seniors in Markham
Accessing affordable and convenient dental care is important for seniors. As a trusted Markham dentist, Bur Oak Dental is proud to serve the community with three accessible locations, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients of all ages, including seniors.
We offer free consultations for new patients and prioritize dental emergencies.
For eligible seniors in Ontario, programs exist to help cover dental costs:
- Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP): This provincial government program provides free routine dental care for eligible seniors aged 65 and above based on income. It covers a range of services including examinations, cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
- York Region Seniors Dental Program: York Region also offers a dental program for eligible low-income seniors who live in the region and meet certain criteria.
We encourage you to explore these programs if you believe you may be eligible, and discuss your options with our team.
Conclusion
While seniors in Markham may face specific oral hygiene challenges like dry mouth, denture care, and gum recession, these conditions are manageable with the right knowledge and routine. Proactive daily care, using appropriate products, and maintaining regular visits to a trusted dental practice like Bur Oak Dental are essential steps towards preserving your oral health and overall quality of life.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our warm and friendly team if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment or a free consultation. Your comfort and smile are our priority.
FAQs
How often should a senior visit the dentist?
Generally, most seniors should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. However, if you have ongoing issues like dry mouth, gum disease, or are a denture wearer, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Are dental programs for seniors in Ontario truly free?
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) provides free routine dental services for eligible low-income seniors aged 65+. Eligibility is based on your income. The York Region program also has income eligibility requirements. These programs cover a range of services, but it’s always best to check the specific program details and your eligibility on their official websites.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, dentures can last 5-10 years. However, your mouth changes over time, and dentures may need to be relined, rebased, or replaced to ensure a proper fit. It’s important to have them checked annually by your dentist or denturist.
Can dry mouth be cured?
In many cases, dry mouth caused by medications or certain health conditions cannot be completely “cured” but it can be effectively managed.
Identifying the cause, adjusting medications if possible (in consultation with your doctor), and using hydration tips and specific products can significantly alleviate symptoms and reduce risks.
Is it important to clean my gums if I have full dentures?
Yes, absolutely. Cleaning your gums daily is crucial to remove plaque, stimulate circulation, and keep the tissues healthy. This prevents irritation and infections and helps maintain a better fit for your dentures.