October is Dental Hygiene Month
Oral hygiene in the senior population can be a key factor in the following health conditions:
1. Heart disease - There is a connection between gum disease and heart disease
2. Pneumonia - Breathing in bacterial droplets from the mouth can make seniors more susceptible to pneumonia
3. Diabetes - High sugar levels can cause gum disease
4. Gum Disease - Can contribute to anemia, cancer and diabetes
5. Dry Mouth - Often a side effect of medications, this can cause increased infections and decay
6. Denture induced Stomatitis - Caused by poor fitting dentures, can cause inflammation of tissues.
How to improve senior dental care:
1. Brush teeth twice daily
2. Use an electric toothbrush
3. Floss at least once a day
4. Rinse with antiseptic mouth wash daily
5. Clean dentures at least once daily, and remove them for at least 4 hours each day, preferably at night
6. Drink tap water as it contains fluoride
7. Visit a dentist at least twice yearly
8. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes dairy and high fiber foods