Dental Health for Senior Citizens Essay Example

periodontal infections include limited access to dental care, inadequate brushing practices, and neglect of oral care by caregivers, particularly in institutionalized elderly individuals (Simunkovic et al., 2005). Elderly individuals who are frail and have dental issues face difficulties in enjoying a proper diet that consists of soft or pureed foods (Altani and Wyatt, 2002).

Elderly individuals often face under-nutrition issues because of limited food options and insufficient essential nutrients. The situation worsens due to xerostomia, which reduces saliva production. Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining oral health and facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Xerostomia can be a result of the natural aging process or medications prescribed for chronic illnesses (Altani and Wyatt, 2002).

Insufficient saliva levels can increase the likelihood of periodontal disease and dental caries as saliva helps protect against infection. In older people, inadequate chewing may be due to factors such as poorly fitting dentures, neglected teeth or dentures, not enough healthy teeth, or misaligned natural or denture teeth (Altani and Wyatt, 2002). Decreased muscle function is another factor that can contribute to impaired chewing. When chewing is compromised, it can lead to insufficient nutrition, further raising the risk of dental infections.

The sense of smell and taste in older individuals declines, resulting in reduced food intake and nutrition (Altani and Wyatt, 2002). It is important to note that many seniors, especially those living in institutions, consume higher amounts of refined carbohydrates, specifically sucrose. This can lead to tooth decay (Simunkovic et al., 2005). Dental health care becomes even more crucial for elderly people who have additional conditions like cardiac pacemakers because they face a greater risk of endocarditis

due to poor oral hygiene. Therefore, addressing dental issues among the elderly is extremely important.

To effectively treat tooth decay, the involvement of a dentist and the cooperation of the elderly person are necessary. It is recommended to focus on prevention measures, such as improving brushing techniques with the help of a caregiver. The use of remineralizing pastes and mouth rinses can promote mineralization and reduce the risk of decay. In addition, avoiding refined carbohydrates is beneficial in preventing dental infections. For dental caries prevention, chlorhexidine varnish can be applied once or twice daily, while concentrated fluoride varnish may be applied every 3-6 months to decrease the likelihood of developing caries (Kay, 2000).

The elderly can be recommended artificial saliva to rinse and lubricate their dry mouth, which is costly.

The act of chewing can be improved by using properly fitting dentures, adhesive pastes, powder, and pads. It is important to address any painful conditions related to chewing to enhance this process.

The oral hygiene of elderly individuals tends to deteriorate because they have reduced ability and rely on caregivers for brushing and mouth rinsing. Furthermore, limited mobility often prevents them from receiving dental treatment. Additionally, seniors frequently suffer from chronic illnesses and take multiple medications, both of which have negative effects on their oral health. Older adults commonly experience tooth loss, malocclusion, dry mouth, and periodontal infections. Given the significance of oral health for overall well-being, it is crucial to prioritize maintaining good dental hygiene in the elderly.