Geriatric Dentist in White Bear Lake MN

You're Not Alone

More and more often, this is becoming a major concern, and it's one that Dr. Anderson has gone through himself. Seniors often feel that they need less care as they get older, but now more than ever, great emphasis needs to be given to prevention and regular visits. 

As We Age, Our Dental Health Changes

Dentists all too often see advanced breakdown and dysfunction, leading to more complex treatment needs and expense. As we all get older, our saliva's consistency, flow, and chemical make-up often change. Combined with syndromes, disease, and medications, we can see some extensive damage to the teeth and gums. Dexterity, diet, and dementia can also play a large role in a person's ability to practice good oral hygiene at home. 

We see increased cavities, gum disease, infection, and lost teeth in this age group, and this results in less function, less enjoyment while eating, and diminished overall health. This is why, when we are younger and still pretty healthy, dentists tend to stress good oral hygiene techniques, a good diet that avoids both acid and sugar, and regular visits for cleanings and exams. Think of it as building up good habits and health now so that you can cash them in when you get older! 

Be Proactive About Elderly Dental Health

For seniors who live in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other long-term care situations, it is very important to have talks about dental health with all the caregivers involved as well as with their primary care providers. Regular preventive care is a great continuing investment for your present and your future health. 

Contact Our White Bear Lake Office

If you or a senior you know are in need of dental care, contact our office today to schedule your consultation, Here at White Bear Smiles, we take special pride in our ability to serve seniors well! 

More and more, this is a major concern, one that I'm going through myself. Seniors often feel they need less care as they get older, but now more than ever, greater emphasis needs to be given to prevention and regular visits. Dentists all too often see advanced breakdown and dysfunction, leading to more complex treatment needs and expenses. As we all get older, our saliva's consistency, flow, and chemical make-up often change adversely, and combined with syndromes, disease, and medications can greatly damage the teeth and gums. Dexterity, diet, and dementia also play a large role in a person's personal oral hygiene abilities.

Common Dental Issues in Geriatric Patients

We see increased cavities, gum disease, infection, and lost teeth in this age group, resulting in less function, less enjoyment of eating, and lessened overall health because of it.

This is why, when we are still fairly healthy, dentists stress great oral hygiene techniques, a good diet avoiding acid and sugar, and regular visits. For seniors in assisted living and nursing home, etc., it is very important to have talks about dental health with all the caregivers involved, and their M.D.'s.

Call Our White Bear Lake Dental Office

Regular preventive care is a great continuing investment for your present and future health. Here at White Bear Smiles, we take special pride in our ability to serve Seniors well!

Geriatric Dental Care

The good news is that more and more people are keeping their teeth as they grow older. The most important thing is to keep visiting your dentist at the interval that they recommend for your particular situation. If your health or medication situation changes, advise your dentist right away. It could have an impact on how your dental treatment proceeds.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Dental decay remains a problem for mature adults. Be sure to brush twice a day, especially after meals, and pay particular attention to the gum line. Flossing, of course, remains vital. As we age, dry mouth can become a problem. Talk to your dentist about ways to stimulate the flow of saliva. In addition to your fluoride toothpaste, your dentist may be able to recommend special toothpaste for sensitive areas in your mouth.

Caring for Your Dentures in White Bear Lake

If you wear dentures, be sure to clean them and your mouth thoroughly each day. Talk with your dentist about how frequently you need to have an oral check-up and to have your dentures checked.

Dental Care for Caregivers

Providing dental care as a caregiver requires patience most of all. But whether it's an elderly person or one with developmental disabilities, your charge needs to practice good oral hygiene with your help.

How to Brush Someone Else's Teeth

First, wash your hands and put on sanitary, disposable gloves. Stand or sit where you have a good view of all the teeth and make sure you have good light. Apply only a small amount of toothpaste to the toothbrush. Brush all surfaces of each tooth and angle the toothbrush to brush gently at the gum line. Gently brush the tongue after you've finished the teeth. Help the person rinse with plain water. Think about whether a power toothbrush might make the job easier, but give your charge time to get used to one.

Also, the bathroom is not the only place where teeth can be brushed. The important thing is to get the job done. So if some other room is more comfortable for the person you're helping, that's fine. Naturally, make sure you get the person you're helping to the dentist in White Bear Lake at least twice a year for a checkup and professional dental cleaning.