Older Adults and Oral Care

Older adults have about the same dental issues as younger adults.  There are, however, a few differences. Older adults are more prone to missing teeth as well as gum disease, broken fillings and tooth decay on the roots of teeth.  Some have trouble holding a toothbrush which leads to teeth not getting brushed well or not at all.  As a result, many older adults find themselves using dentures also known as false teeth. There are two types of dentures. Partial Dentures are used to replace some of the teeth. If you do not have any teeth then you’ll need a Complete Denture.  To create these, your dentist will take impressions and measure your mouth to make them. They are usually sent to a dental laboratory and may take several weeks to complete including adjusting them to your bite.

You must take care of your dentures the same way you would take care of your real teeth. Don’t forget to care of your gums as well to avoid receding gum problems, which affect the fit of your dentures. Caring for your dentures is easy. As you take your dentures out,  lean over a bowl of water or a folded towel.  In the event you drop your dentures by accident they will fall on the towel or water and won’t break.  Replace your dentures every 5 years.  Remember that using your dentures on a daily basis wears them out and you will have to replace them. Always rinse your dentures to remove loose food particles, and brush your dentures with denture crème cleanser, not regular toothpaste. Store your dentures in lukewarm water or a denture cleaning solution overnight.  Always use a toothbrush with soft bristles because hard bristles might damage your dentures.  Mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid can be used to clean your teeth but never use bleach or other household cleaners. Cleaning dentures everyday prevents it from becoming stained and helps your mouth stay healthy!