Practicing preventive dental care is essential for protecting your teeth and gum health. Even if you brush and floss your pearly whites regularly, you should also visit your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings. This is especially important for seniors, as they are more susceptible to dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss. Keep reading from your dentist in Round Rock on why routine dental care is essential for those in assisted living.
Reason #1: Early Prevention of Dental Issues
While regular dental checkups are important for everyone, older people are more vulnerable to oral health issues. Their enamel will wear down and gums will recede over time, giving them enough reason to seek preventive care. During a biannual checkup, your dentist will provide professional teeth cleaning as well as monitor your oral health. This is essential for seniors, as most dental issues can be treated if they’re detected early on.
Reason #2: Treat Tooth Loss Right away
Many people over the age of 65 experience partial or complete tooth loss. This is most commonly due to gum disease, as well as decay and injury. Tooth loss not only makes it difficult to eat and talk comfortably, but it can also cause stress and hardship to your physical and mental health. However, there are always advanced treatments for seniors to effectively restore their pearly whites. A routine visit to the dentist can offer direct solutions like dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants to help a patient smile again!
Reason #3: Promote Overall Well-being
In addition to improving oral well-being, regular dental checkups can also promote overall quality of life. Many dental issues can lead to other more serious health conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes. Infections can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the bacteria in gingivitis potentially traveling to the lungs and causing respiratory diseases. For this reason, seniors should visit the dentist at least twice a year to avoid harmful complications.
So, if your loved one is in assisted living, then it’s best to ensure that they seek preventive dental care regularly. With your dentist’s help, they’ll be more able to enjoy a stronger and healthier smile in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Mike Asay graduated with his dental doctorate from Baylor College of Dentistry. He continually seeks advanced training through his membership in several groups including the Texas Dental Association, the Capital Area Dental Society, and the Rotary Club of Round Rock. He provides outstanding and comprehensive dental treatments, such as dental bridges, dentures, dental implants, and routine checkups/cleanings to maintain your best smile. If you want to schedule an appointment for a loved one in assisted living, feel free to visit our website or call us at 512-244-2796.