5 Signs Your Senior Parent Needs A Dental Cleaning

By Care Street Home Care Staff | July 26, 2024 | Comments Off on 5 Signs Your Senior Parent Needs A Dental Cleaning
Elder Care in Plainsboro NJ

Elder Care in Plainsboro NJ

Not too many people like going to the dentist, so if your senior parent has been putting off getting a dental cleaning. they’re not alone. But it’s very important for seniors to get regular dental cleanings.

Regular dental cleanings for seniors can prevent dental infections that can impact your mom or dad’s health. And if your senior parent has a condition like diabetes the state of their dental health can provide clues about their overall health.

If your senior parent has been putting off getting a dental cleaning because it’s hard for them to get out of the house, elder care can help. An elder care provider can take your mom or dad to their dental cleaning, stay with them, and take them home again so they have safe and reliable transportation to the dentist.

Does your senior parent need a dental cleaning? If it’s been more than a year since they had a cleaning, then they probably need one. Or, if you see any of these signs you should schedule a dental cleaning for them:

Visible Plaque and Tartar Buildup

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that can harden into tartar if not removed. If you notice a yellow or brown buildup on your parent’s teeth, especially around the gum line, it’s a clear indication they need a professional cleaning.

Tartar can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist, and its presence can lead to more serious dental issues if not addressed. Once your mom or dad has had a dental cleaning personal care at home can help them take better care of their teeth and brush regularly.

Bad Breath

Persistent bad breath, even after brushing and using mouthwash, can be a sign of underlying dental problems. Bad breath can be caused by food particles trapped between teeth, plaque buildup, gum disease, or tooth decay. Regular dental cleanings help remove the bacteria and debris that contribute to bad breath, promoting a healthier oral environment.

Bad breath can also be a side effect of medication, so if your mom or dad’s bad breath doesn’t go away after a full dental cleaning talk to their doctor to see if it could be caused by a medication they take.

Gum Issues

Healthy gums should be firm and pink. If your parent’s gums are red, swollen, bleeding, or receding, these are signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can be reversed with proper dental care and regular cleanings. Ignoring these signs can lead to more severe gum disease, potentially causing tooth loss and other health complications.

If your senior parent has dentures, they can have gum irritation or disease caused by poor-fitting or dirty dentures. Their dentures may need to be refitted.

Tooth Sensitivity

Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks can indicate enamel erosion or gum recession, exposing the more sensitive parts of the teeth. Dental cleanings can help identify and address the causes of sensitivity, whether it’s due to plaque buildup, cavities, or gum disease. Regular cleanings can also strengthen the enamel and provide fluoride treatments to reduce sensitivity.

Changes in Dental Health

Any sudden changes in your parent’s dental health, such as loose teeth, difficulty chewing, or discomfort in the mouth, should prompt a dental visit. These changes could indicate serious issues like advanced periodontal disease, cavities, or infections. Regular dental cleanings help monitor oral health and catch problems early before they become more difficult and expensive to treat.

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Plainsboro, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care today. Call (732) 607-8870.

Care Street Home Care Staff
Latest posts by Care Street Home Care Staff (see all)
Posted in Dental Health, Seniors and Health Issues and tagged , ,