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As seniors age, their medicines become an important part of their life. However, sometimes, these medicines can have side effects that can be risky for their oral health and cause problems like dry mouth, gum diseases, and even tooth decay.
If you are a senior who is facing problems in managing your oral health, then contact a professional like Burlingame dental care for seniors. These professionals will first discuss your health issues, examine your mouth, and then suggest the best treatment plan for you.
Read this article to learn more about common dental problems caused by medicines and strategies you can use to handle them. By understanding these, you can take the right steps to protect your smile from any problem.
The Impact of Medications on Oral Health
There are many commonly prescribed medicines used by seniors that directly impact their oral health. The first step in protecting their oral health is to know about these effects.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Many medications like antihistamines, diuretics, and antidepressants, which are given to seniors, can reduce the production of saliva in their mouth. This can be bad for their oral because saliva protects teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away any food particles. It also increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Gum Changes
Some medications that are used for blood pressure can cause gum to grow over and become sensitive. These overgrown gums can then trap bacteria and cause infections. It is important for seniors to get dental cleaning to keep themselves safe from these gum diseases.
Bone Health and Tooth Loss
Seniors who have osteoporosis and take medicines for it can have weakened jawbones. Jawbones are important in holding their teeth in place. This weakening of the jawbone can cause tooth loss and even make it hard for them to get any dental implant.
Warning Signs of Medication-Related Issues
It is important to notice these oral health problems at an early stage. Seniors and caregivers should always look for any changes or symptoms that are related to their oral health.
Persistent Dry Mouth
If you have a dry or sticky feeling in your mouth, then it is a common sign of side effects from medicine. This can increase the chance of getting cavities and mouth sores. It is important to treat this issue as soon as possible to avoid any problems in the future.
Changes in Gums
Swollen or bleeding gums can be a big sign of reaction to the medicine that you are taking. Gum overgrowth can also make it hard to clean teeth properly and increase the chances of gum infection.
Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
Unexpected sensitivity, pain, or loosening of the teeth can be a sign of problems with the bones or enamel erosion because of the medicine that you are taking. These should be treated at once by a professional dentist as soon as possible.
If you ignore these warning signs, then it can cause severe problems like gum disease, tooth loss, and infections, which can then require proper dental treatment, which can be time-consuming as well as costly.
Measures to Protect Oral Health
Having a healthy mouth while taking your medicines is a difficult task, but with the right approach and strategy, it can be done. By following proper preventive habits, seniors can reduce the chance of having dental problems.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is not only good for your oral health but also for your overall health. Drinking water can help in dealing with dry mouth. Seniors should take sips of water from time to time during the whole day and avoid any beverages that can cause dryness, like coffee, tea, and soda.
Oral Hygiene
Use fluoride toothpaste and brush twice a day. Flossing your teeth regularly can help remove plaque and food particles that get stuck between your teeth. Seniors should also use antibacterial mouthwashes to reduce bacteria levels.
Choose Senior-Friendly Dental Products
There are specialized products such as sensitive-tooth toothpaste, saliva-stimulating rinses, and soft-bristle toothbrushes that can make oral care easier and more effective. They are made to fix many challenges that older adults face.
Take Control of Your Oral Health Today!
Protect your smile by taking the right steps and visiting your dentist regularly. Consult with a professional today and address all of your medication-related oral health problems with expert help.
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