Seniors & Oral Health

In this day and age, more and more seniors have avoided the need for dentures altogether. So, the notion that false teeth are a given as you grow older is becoming passé.

As a matter of fact, if you maintain a healthy diet and practice exceptional oral hygiene, you should have no trouble keeping your teeth for the rest of your life.

Today’s medical research is discovering that a healthy and properly maintained mouth significantly contributes to a healthy body and a long life. There are also other benefits to proper oral care, and that’s avoiding possible serious problems like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even stroke.

Dexterity and Arthritis

If you have arthritis or suffer from other dexterity issues, you may find it difficult to practice healthy oral hygiene.

Today the dental care industry has created and manufactured devices that are ergonomically designed. These devices include toothbrushes and floss holders that make it easier for you to grasp and control them.

You’d be surprised at items around the house you can use to help you. Why not try inserting the handle of your toothbrush into a small rubber ball. You can also extend the handle by attaching a small piece of plastic or a Popsicle stick to the end of it making it easier to work with.

In the case of floss, you can tie a tiny loop on either side. These loops will make it easier for you to grasp and control it with your fingers while you are flossing.