Spring Cleaning for Your Smile: The Importance of Regular Dental Care for Older Adults
Oral health is overall health. Many new studies have come proving the importance of oral hygiene for heart health, joint health and much more. Spring is upon us, and this is our reminder to you to go ahead and book that spring teeth cleaning with your dentist! If you need help finding a dentist that works with the Ontario dental plan for seniors, or need to have a technician come to your home to perform the service, visit your Carebee Rolodex under the ‘Dental’ category or ‘Mobile Health Services’ category (we’ve provided more information below).
Now let’s get started!
How often should you be getting your teeth cleaned?
Older adults should typically get their teeth cleaned every six months, just like most adults. However, depending on individual health conditions, such as gum disease or chronic conditions like diabetes, a dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings, such as every 3-4 months, to maintain optimal oral health. It's always best to follow your dentist's advice tailored to your specific needs.
3 Reasons to prioritize routine teeth cleaning
Gum Disease and Tooth Decay Prevention:
Consistent dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. (source)****
Early Detection of Serious Health Conditions:
“[...] looking for plaque, cavities, and gum disease is only part of the picture. Dentists have a prime vantage point to be the first line of defence in identifying problems all over the body. More than 100 conditions can produce signs in the mouth, according to the American Heart Association, and dental training enables these clinicians to spot telltale clues in the teeth, gums, tongue, palate, lips, jaw, face, and neck.” (source)
Reducing Risk of Cognitive Impairment:
Tooth loss from gum disease (periodontitis) may raise your risk of dementia. In the October 2021 issue of the JAMDA: The Journal of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine, researchers looked at 14 studies and found that older adults who had lost more than one tooth had an almost 50% higher risk of developing cognitive impairment and a 28% higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia. (source)
Improved Quality of Life
Maintaining oral health enhances the ability to eat nutritious foods and communicate effectively, contributing to better physical health and social interactions. (source)
How can I find a dentist?
I need a dentist/technician to come to my home - visit your Carebee Rolodex and click the ‘Mobile Health Services’ Category to find a mobile dentist
I am looking for a dentist who works with the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program - visit your Carebee Rolodex and click the ‘Dental’ Category
Visit your Carebee Rolodex at https://www.carebee.ca/rolodex
