It’s very important that seniors get regular dental checkups. Often, seniors will put off going to the dentist because they don’t want to go because it’s not easy for them to get there or because they don’t think it’s necessary. If your senior mom or dad hasn’t seen the dentist in a year or more, they need to get in for an exam and a dental cleaning. If you can’t take them to the dentist because of your work schedule, senior home care can help.
Senior home care provides a range of support services to seniors who are living alone, including taking them to dental and vision appointments.
Even if your mom or dad insists they don’t need to see a dentist, if you or your senior home care team notice any of these signs, it’s time to make a dentist appointment for your senior parent:
Difficulty Chewing or Eating
This is probably the easiest sign to recognize. If your mom or dad is avoiding certain foods, particularly harder or tougher items, or if they’re experiencing discomfort while chewing, it could indicate dental problems like cavities, loose teeth, or poorly fitting dentures.
If your mom or dad is suddenly not wanting to eat, or asking for soft foods like yogurt or mashed potatoes they could have pain in their mouth or teeth they’re not telling your about. Any change in their eating habits or ability to chew means they should see a dentist.
Senior home care providers can help with routine dental hygiene, observing your senior for issues when you’re not there, and transportation to appointments.
Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) can be a sign of gum disease, tooth decay, or bacterial infections in the mouth that need attention. It’s not easy to talk about something like bad breath with your senior parent, but if you know that they are brushing their teeth and they still have bad breath, they should see a dentist.
Dental infections can be treated, but if left untreated, they can cause serious health problems.
Bleeding or Swollen Gums
Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing or appear red and swollen could indicate gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), which requires professional treatment. If you are helping your mom or dad brush their teeth and you notice signs of bleeding or sore gums, make a dentist appointment for them right away.
Mouth Pain or Sensitivity
Ongoing pain or sensitivity in the teeth or gums, particularly when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, might suggest cavities, exposed roots, or other dental issues. If you notice that your mom or dad is wincing when drinking their morning coffee or waiting to let their cold water become room temperature before they drink it, they should see a dentist.
A senior home care professional can watch for these signs when caring for your senior loved one.
Dry Mouth
A persistent feeling of dryness in the mouth can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth can be caused by lots of things from allergies to side effects of medication, but the dentist can help to treat it. Mouthwashes and other treatments can make your senior mom or dad more comfortable and help them avoid long-term oral problems associated with dry mouth.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Senior Home Care in Ridgefield, CT, please contact the caring staff at Connecticut Nursing Services today. 203-730-2739
