Senior citizens require extra care and attention, especially regarding oral health. Yet, access to geriatric dental care remains a problem, especially if they find it inconvenient to access healthcare clinics. Dentists at home can address this issue by offering the convenience of providing dental care in the comfort of your home.
Are seniors more susceptible to dental problems?
With age, many things change. Wrinkles and lines are not the only things you will notice as you age. Many oral health issues are prevalent in old age. We are not making this statement without facts to support it.
According to research, Out of every 10 individuals, more than 7 experienced oral health issues. Sounds bad? Here’s the worst part: Older adults with chronic diseases are more likely to develop periodontal diseases if they follow poor dental care.
There is a powerful ally in the quest for a healthy smile that often goes overlooked for senior dental care – at-home dental care. In this blog, we’ll explore why consistent home-based dental practices are essential for seniors, ensuring a radiant smile and overall well-being.
6 Reasons why regular at-home dental checkups are essential
- Oral Health Well-Being:
Complete dental care can remove stubborn tartar buildup, preventing tooth decay. This reduces the risk of bad breath and gum issues. Seniors experience dry mouth and changes in teeth and gums. Regular checkups allow for a more personalized approach and reduce the probability of gingivitis and periodontal diseases.
India ranks second globally in the prevalence of oral cancer cases. Only a dental health professional can detect the early signs of oral cancer where treatment is most effective.
- Regular Monitoring of Oral Changes
In India, we rush to the nearest dentist when we experience severe pain or discomfort. As for senior citizens facing mobility issues, they opt for emergency dentists at home when the situation worsens and the pain is unbearable.
However, regular dental checkups can help avoid this discomfort. Consistent at-home oral checkups provide an opportunity to monitor any changes. This proactive approach allows seniors to identify potential issues early on, facilitating timely intervention and preventing the progression of dental problems.
To learn more about dental emergency signs, read our blog: When to Seek Immediate Care at Home.
- Overall Health Benefits
Oral Health is linked to overall well-being. Regular at-home dental care can prevent serious dental complications. Tooth loss is also linked to nutritional deficiencies.
Periodontitis is also linked to heart disease and diabetes. If you are diabetic, bacteria that feed on sugar can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum diseases, eventually leading to tooth loss.
- Aesthetic and emotional well-being
Beyond oral health benefits, regular dental checkups play a vital role in maintaining a vibrant smile. Dentists at home offer services fromdeep teeth cleaning, dental whitening, scaling, and polishing, all at home, without the need to visit a traditional dental clinic. These cosmetic dental treatments remove stains and discoloration on teeth and address lousy breath issues.
Healthy teeth lead to a healthy smile, which boosts self-confidence and improves your emotional well-being.
- Personalized Experience
Each individual’s oral health needs are unique. At-home dental care allows seniors to personalize their oral care routine. At-home dentists also offer specially curated oral hygiene plans tailored to your needs.
Expert dentists also recommend ways to identify areas that require more attention and provide tips to enhance your daily dental routine according to your oral health.
- Cost-Effective:
Do you consider dental checkups as an extra expense? However, regular care can reduce the likelihood of expensive dental emergencies. Investing in such preventive dental care can save significant costs that will arise in the future if oral care is not given due importance.
How often should you opt for regular checkups at home?
It is recommended to have regular checkups at least once every six months. However, seniors may require additional health checkups according to their oral health needs. Seniors with a history of dental issues or having a weakened immune system may require frequent visits. Overall, seniors should opt for regular dental checkups at home to maintain their oral health and overall well-being.
Regular home dental checkups for senior citizens is a proactive measure contributing to improved quality of life in their later years.
To learn more about innovative home dental care benefits for your aging parents and grandparents, read our blog: Benefits of at-home dental care.
Curious about Dent at Home Service? We offer well-trained dental professionals who are well aware of the unique needs of the elderly population. We offer services ranging from dental whitening treatment to RCT treatment at home.
Schedule your dental check-up today and embark on a journey to optimal oral health!
FAQs:
How often do you really need a dental checkup?
The frequency of dental checkups can vary depending on individual oral health needs. However, we recommend dental checkups and cleaning every six months.
Why are regular visits to the dentist so important?
Regular dental checkups can maintain an individual’s optimal oral health, prevent the progression of dental problems, and receive professional guidance on oral hygiene practices. These proactive measures contribute to long-term oral health and overall well-being.
How often should a 70 year old go to the dentist?
As people age, they may face specific oral health challenges, such as a higher risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer, requiring frequent dental health checkups.
If there are no specific oral health challenges, regular checkups should be continued at least once every six months. However, seniors who face mobility issues should consider at-home dental care over dental clinic visits.
