Seniors: don’t leave out this key to better health

(NC) As we age, staying healthy can start to feel like a bit of an uphill battle. One surprising thing that makes a big difference is maintaining good oral health. Brushing up on how you take care of your teeth and gums can benefit your whole body—for instance, did you know that bacteria from your mouth can find their way into your heart or lungs? Here are some tips for keeping those pearly whites shining:

Oral health-care tips for all seniors:

• Regularly visit a dental hygienist to receive preventive care.
• Have a consistent daily oral care routine that includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthrinse to help prevent issues like gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss.
• For people with cognitive or physical challenges, caregivers can assist with these tasks to ensure proper oral hygiene.

Additional things for those with dentures to know:

• Your dentures require just as much care as natural teeth and should be cleaned after each meal.
• Plaque can still build up, which can cause cavities, malodours, sores, and irritation.
• Rinse and brush dentures using a soft-bristled denture brush and mild liquid soap. Then, brush the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• It is critical to remove dentures overnight to allow the gums to breathe. Place dentures in a container of water or mild denture-cleansing solution and rinse them well in the morning before putting them back in your mouth.

Good oral health isn't just about keeping your mouth and teeth clean; it also affects overall well-being. Poor oral health can lead to eating difficulties, malnutrition and even serious health conditions. So it's crucial for seniors to prioritize their oral care to maintain their quality of life.

Learn more about ways to protect your oral health at dentalhygienecanada.ca.