Flossing has developed a bad rapport over the years due to myths that says it can harm your gums. However, flossing is still important and should be integrated into one’s daily oral health care routine. This holds particularly true among seniors, whom, with old age, become more susceptible to oral health diseases.
Why is it important to floss?
Flossing is the act of using thin filaments to remove food and dental plaque between the teeth. It is necessary to reach the areas that a toothbrush cannot. A lot of oral health problems arise from plaque buildup. It comes from food residues and it allows the growth of disease-causing bacteria. If left unchecked, it can lead to various oral health diseases, the most common of which are cavities and tooth decay.
As of today, the recommended frequency of flossing should be once daily. For individuals with sensitive gums, extra care must be implemented when flossing.
What are the oral health concerns among seniors?
Having dentures, taking regular medications, and other health conditions can significantly impact a senior’s oral health. These numerous factors can accumulate to negatively impact a senior’s dental health. The general solution to prevent the onset of these problems is to brush and floss daily, as well as coming up with a comprehensive dental care plan with a dentist from a clinic. If one does not have the time to visit a clinic, it is recommendable to check for nearby mobile dentistry centers online.
The common most oral health concern is the development of cavities and tooth decay on the root surfaces of the teeth. This comes with old age. It can be prevented by brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, as well as regular consultations with health professionals.
Another problem among seniors is teeth sensitivity. Sensitivity arises when the protective layer of the teeth called enamel wears away, thus exposing the underlying layer which contains more nerves. One may experience pain when consuming cold or hot food and beverages, as well as extremely sweet or sour food. The solution for this would be to use anti-sensitivity toothpaste.
Dry mouth or xerostomia refers to a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth don’t make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth is often due to aging issues. When untreated, it can damage one’s teeth. The treatment can be recommended to you by an oral health specialist.
In conclusion, it is almost inevitable to encounter oral health problems in one’s lifetime, particularly for seniors. To delay their onset, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and to establish a routine that consistently consists of flossing and regular dental check-ups. Other practices include avoiding excessive sugar and caffeine to protect the teeth from plaque build-up and staining, respectively. Establishing a good oral hygiene routine will come a long way.