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Adult Dental Care

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Keeping the mouth healthy is essential not only for good nutrition, but also for overall health and well- being, self- esteem, communication and, possibly pneumonia prevention. Financial expenditure, pain, discomfort, taste perception , and odor are other results of poor oral care. Many older adults were not introduced to preventive dentistry in their formative years and thus seek dental care only if there is a problem. There are many common dental problems seen in older adults.

COMMON DENTAL PROBLEMS SEEN IN ADULTS

DENTAL CARIES, or "cavities", are not just problems for children. As long as you have natural teeth, caries may occur. Bacteria in the mouth turns into a sticky substance called "plaque". The unique plaque erodes the enamel surface of the tooth and creates a hole. Pain does not occur until the cavity grows large and involves nerves. Left untreated, a tooth abscess will occur, requiring root canal or possible removal of the tooth. Cavities may also result from gum disease.

GINGIVAL DISEASE, often called "gum or periodontal disease", is an infection that affects the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. This is caused by the long- term effects of tooth plaque.

XEROSTOMIA , or "dry mouth", is not a normal part of aging. It can affect talking, taste, eating, swallowing , and speaking, and can contribute to tooth decay. Medication is often the reason for dry mouth; therefore, older adults with dry mouth should have their medications checked by their pharmacist, dentist, or primary care provider.

ORAL CANCER, occurs most commonly in males older than 40, who use tobacco or alcohol, or have a history of neck or throat cancer. Frequent sun exposure increases the risk for lip cancer. Most oral cancers begin in the tongue and floor of the mouth. An oral examination is an important part of a dental visit. Symptoms of oral cancer include:
  • red or white patches in the mouth
  • a mouth sore that won't heal
  • bleeding in the mouth
  • loose teeth
  • pain or difficulty swallowing
  • a lump in the neck or an earache

ORAL CARCINOMA

Oral Carcinoma

ORAL CANCER

Oral Cancer

TONGUE CANCER

Oral Cancer

COMMON DENTAL PROBLEMS CONT...

ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE, causes a change in saliva, and research has shown an increase in dental cavities in people with Alzheimer's disease. When a person is diagnosed wit the disease, it is important to go to the dentist and have any oral care that is needed performed. This is important because the patient may not be able to tolerate oral care later in the disease process or may become uncooperative with dental treatment.

DENTURES WEARERS, may think they no longer need dental visits; however, dental examinations for the denture wearer included checking for oral cancer and examining the denture for proper fit, function, and comfort. Daily cleaning of dentures is important to prevent plaque build- up, mouth odors, stains, and irritation and infection of the gums and mouth.

Older adults on a fixed or limited income may not be able to afford regular dental care. Many dentists offer their services at reduced fees through dental society- sponsored assistance programs. Aid programs vary from state to state; therefore, call your local dental society for information about nearby assistance programs and low-cost care locations. These are usually public health clinics and dental school clinics.

Teach older adults the following healthy habits for oral care:
  • Make regular visits to the dentist for a check- up and cleaning. The dentist will determine how frequently this is needed on oral status.
  • Brush your teeth twice daily. Use fluoride toothpaste. Use soft bristle, brush on all surfaces using round motions and back-and-forth strokes Brush the gum line and lightly brush the tongue.
  • If arthritis or other musculoskeletal problems makes it difficult to perform oral care, ask a dentist if an adaptive toothbrush might help or request an occupational evaluation. There are many internet sites with adaptive oral care products, such as http://arthritissupplies.com/seetry.
  • Floss once per day. This will remove food particles that the toothbrush can't reach. Rinse after flossing.
  • A dentist may prescribe a bacteria- fighting mouthwash to control plaque and gum infection.
  • To help prevent gum disease, avoid tobacco products.
  • To help prevent oral cancer, avoid smoking , avoid snuff or chew tobacco, limit alcohol, and use lip cream with sunscreen.

DENTURE CARE

Provide the following information to older adults about denture care.
  • Dentures may feel strange at first,; therefore, it may be easier to start with soft foods. Cut food into small bites and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth.
  • Denture wearers should be aware they will be less sensitive to hot foods and liquids and may have more difficult time noticing bones and other hard objects in foods.
  • Use caution when eating meat and other solid foods because it may be difficult to use feel to determine how much is in the mouth, thereby risking swallowing too large of a piece.
  • Dentures may break if too much pressure is applied during brushing.
  • Clean dentures over a sink of water or over a towel to prevent breakage in case they drop.
  • Dentures may become distorted if placed in hot water.
  • Never scrape the dentures with a knife or other hard object because it may cause rough surfaces .
  • Never use a hard bristled brush to clean the dentures. This can scratch the dentures.
  • Rinse dentures under water to remove food debris after meals.
  • Brush regularly after each meal, or at least before bed.
  • Brush with water and mildly abrasive tooth or denture paste. Don't use scoring powders.
  • Leave dentures out overnight or out of the mouth for a period of 6 or 8 hours daily. Wearing them all the time can result in infection of the soft tissues under the dentures.
  • When dentures are not in the mouth, keep them in water or denture solution. They require a wet environment to maintain the proper fit.
  • Gums need daily cleaning with a soft toothbrush or washcloth to remove plaque and debris and to stimulate circulation of tissues.
  • Massage gums by pressing and releasing the gums with your thumb and index finger.
  • Signs of dentures no longer fitting include:

    - problems chewing food
    - frequent cheek biting
    - difficulty or change in speech
    - red inflamed tissues
    - discomfort with wearing the denture
    - cracked corners of the mouth

THE EFFECTS OF QUITTING SMOKING

  • 20 minutes after you quit- your blood pressure, pulse rate, and body temperature of your hands and feet drop to normal.
  • 8 hours after you quit - the carbon monoxide level in your blood drops and the oxygen level in your blood increases to normal.
  • 24 hours after you quit - your chance of heart attack decreases.
  • 2 days after you quit - your nerve endings start regrowing and your ability to smell and taste is enhanced.
  • 15 years after you quit - your risk of heart disease is that of a non - smoker!
  • It sets a healthy example for children, grandchildren, and others.
  • It reduces second- hand smoke inhalation for family, friends, and others.

STOP SMOKING!!!

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New Guestbook Comments

  • darran360 Apr 5, 2012 @ 8:52 am | delete
    This is a great lens, I never even thought about tongue cancer! I'm thinking about going into the dental industry and am currently looking to study at Dental Hygienist Schools In Atlanta GA, I can't WAIT!!!!
  • Pennyseeker Jan 11, 2012 @ 6:57 am | delete
    Interesting lens!
  • MiamiDentist305 Jan 4, 2012 @ 8:21 pm | delete
    Great Lens! But adults must be urged to consult their local dental professional if they begin to experience swollen, bleeding, or otherwise agitated gums. This could be a sign of infection! Warm Regards, Your Miami Dentist
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