Brushing three times a day, flossing, and using mouthwash are the basics of maintaining good oral health. However, these basics can be difficult for our senior loved ones due to normal, physiological changes that come with aging such as changes in cognition and physical health, among other limitations.
These do not only result in bad teeth and poor oral health but also affects a surprisingly major part of their life, including their general health, well-being, and lifestyle.
Thus, as the community’s partner in health and provider of short term rehab and skilled nursing in New York ourselves, we are listing down some of the more serious effects of poor oral health on our senior loved ones.
- Poor oral health increases the risk of developing oral diseases
The mouth acts as a portal for disease as it shares links with many chronic medical conditions common among the elderly such as cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and respiratory diseases, not to mention, oral cancers are mostly diagnosed in older age groups. - Poor oral health affects an older adult’s appetite and ability to eat
Poor oral health can mean a reduced ability to chew and eat a variety of foods which may lead to a reduced appetite and poor dietary intake/nutrition. - Poor oral health affects an older adult’s confidence and self-esteem
The symptoms that come with having poor oral health such as tooth loss, uneven jawbone, darkened teeth, etc. can affect their ability to talk and communicate effectively, making social interactions harder than usual.
Does your elderly have dental problems? Do they need assistance in completing their oral hygiene routine?
Our professional dental health services in our rehabilitation center in Oswego, New York at Pontiac Care and Rehabilitation Center can help.
We also offer psychological services, among other proactive, evidence-based care services. For more information, contact us today.
