The importance of regular dental care for seniors

Routine dental care is vital to people of all ages, but especially important for seniors. As we age, our body endures an array of changes that can have detrimental consequences to our mouths. As a hygienist, I often hear stories from patients who grew up without routine dental care. Patients weren’t informed of the benefits of preventative dentistry. In turn, this philosophy may have shaped the future of dental needs and most of these patients are seniors. One of the most common changes that affect senior’s oral health is the addition of medications to maintain blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety or depression and diabetes. It is important to let your provider know of any medication changes, as many of these medications can have dental implications that can lead to dental decay and dry mouth. The addition of medications or medical conditions reinforce the need for regular dental care for the senior age group. Our bodies are connected to our mouths and because of this, routine care is a must. As patients age, dexterity and the ability to care for our teeth can change. It is important for routine dental visits that allow for a thorough examination of areas that may need improvement. Your hygienist and dentist are skilled and educated on devices that can help. They are also educated to teach you about how to care for your teeth in all scenarios. Missing teeth, untreated cavities and color changes are many of the complaints I hear from patients regarding lack of routine care. As dental professionals, we have seen all of these cases. We are always happy to see patients in the office and address their needs in a way that feels comfortable to them. We are here to help and look forward to listening, teaching and treating all circumstances! Finances are typically fixed in our senior years, after retirement and we understand that. To help ease some of the financial burden that can be an obstacle to dental care, Family Dentist Tree has incorporated a senior benefits program. This program allows for routine dental care that includes X-rays, exams, cleanings and fluoride. It also helps to reduce the cost of dental work such as fillings and crowns. Our administrative staff is competent in answering questions about this program and we also provide a breakdown of the cost comparison for you to review. We look forward to seeing you at Family Dentist Tree! Seniors, please check out the senior benefits program and don’t be afraid to ask questions, we are here to help!