Caring for Your Teeth… A Lifelong Commitment

Television and movies often glorify the aging process, showing us images of couples travelling and enjoying retirement to its fullest. However, the reality is that many seniors and their caregivers struggle to maintain a daily care regimen that can include basic tooth and/or denture care.

As we age, we find that changes to diet and daily care become necessary to support strong oral health. Creating a relationship with a dental provider you trust will ensure that you can ask the questions you need to ask in a safe environment. Some dental challenges we talk with our North York senior patients about are:

Sensitivity: As we age, our gums often naturally decay and recede, exposing the more sensitive areas of the tooth.

Dry Mouth: Some medications may cause dry mouth and your North York dentist can discuss some strategies to help you manage.

Changes Due to Existing Health Conditions: Some health conditions, such as diabetes, can often negatively impact your oral health. It is critical that you share any changes to your overall health with your North York dental team so that they can be aware of potential dangers.

Cavities and Decay: As our teeth weaken, we are more prone to cavities and decay. Regular oral care is important to help slow the process.

Even Dentures Require TLC

Dentures do not negate the need for regular at-home cleaning or dental visits. Just like when you had your natural teeth, the cleaning process is just one part of the service you receive at your regular check-up. Our expert dental team in North York takes the time to look at your overall oral health, including your gums and soft tissue, while checking dentures for any cracks or sign of wear.

Daily cleaning at home is just as important. You, or your caregiver, want to make sure you are cleaning your dentures thoroughly to ensure the timely removal of any food debris or bacteria.

Tips for Caregivers

For those helping to care for an aging loved one, here are a few tips to help with the daily cleaning process of natural teeth and/or dentures.

Caring for Natural Teeth:

Make it as natural as possible by standing or sitting behind the person; this way you can control the motion as if you were brushing and/or flossing your own teeth

We find it easier to use an electric toothbrush if you can; if not, use a soft-bristled toothbrush

Many seniors are sensitive to cold, so have your person rinse with warm water to finish

Caring for Dentures

Fill the sink with water (trust us… if you drop the dentures, you will be happy you did this step first)

Carefully remove any full or partial dentures

Clean thoroughly with a denture brush and soap, paying attention for any cracks or uneven wear

Rinse after cleaning

If you are replacing full dentures, secure the uppers in place before the lowers

A dedication to good oral hygiene is a lifelong commitment and so important for not only your dental health, but your overall health as well. Our Lawrence Park dental team is here to support you and/or your caregiver in maintaining your overall oral health

Your oral health matters to us and we strive to ensure our patients create healthy and lifelong habits. We invite you to visit us in office at Lawrence Park Dental, or call us at 416.488.7454 to speak with our team of experts at any time. We’d love to help you address your dental questions and concerns. It’s our job to keep you smiling… and we love it!