Senior Oral Health: Why It Matters for Overall Wellbeing

March 5th, 2025
By: Dr. Hema Patel

Senior Oral Health: Why It Matters for Overall Wellbeing

As we age, our bodies go through various changes, and many times, oral health can take a backseat. However, the state of our mouths directly impacts our overall health, making it crucial to maintain dental care at every stage of life. At Wisteria Dental Care in Germantown, we are passionate about helping seniors live healthier lives through personalized dental care that considers the body as a whole.

Why I Care About Senior Oral Health

My parents, who are in their late 70s, live with me, and I’ve seen firsthand how aging impacts their health and their ability to navigate the healthcare system. They sometimes get confused about medical advice, leading to misunderstandings and poorer health outcomes. Luckily, my sisters and I are able to support them by attending appointments and following up to ensure they understand what’s been discussed or advised.

As a dentist, I’ve seen many seniors neglect their dental health, thinking that because they don’t have many years left, there’s no need to address issues like tooth decay or gum disease. But the truth is, poor oral health can lead to serious complications, affecting not just the mouth, but also the heart, lungs, and even the brain. Issues with chewing, speaking, and smiling can also decrease quality of life, making it harder for seniors to enjoy their daily routines.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Research has shown that oral health and general health are deeply connected. Dental issues like gum disease can contribute to chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. By maintaining good oral health, seniors can reduce their risk of these complications, helping them live a fuller, healthier life. This is why we focus on treating the whole person, considering how oral health changes throughout life.

At Wisteria Dental Care, we go beyond just fixing teeth: we love to listen to the stories and incredible life experiences that our senior patients share and offer dental care that is customized to their needs. We’re not only here for their routine checkups but also to help manage dental problems that affect their daily life and overall well-being.

Helpful Tips for Seniors and Caregivers

If you care for a senior loved one, here are a few dental tips to help maintain oral health and prevent issues:

1. Dry Mouth: A common symptom in seniors, dry mouth can also be a side effect of many medications. This condition leads to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Encourage sipping water throughout the day to keep the mouth hydrated and wash away plaque and bacteria. There are also over-the-counter sprays, rinses, lozenges available to help with severe dry mouth like Moisyn, Xlear, Xylimelts. 

2. Root Caries: As gums recede with age, the roots of teeth become exposed, making them more prone to decay. Unlike cavities on the top part of teeth, exposed roots are harder to clean,  softer and decay more easily. Encourage your loved one to reduce sticky snacks like crackers and rinse the mouth with water after meals to reduce plaque buildup.

3. Dexterity Challenges: Many seniors experience arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to care for their teeth properly. Home dental care may require extra assistance from caregivers. In these cases, more frequent professional dental cleanings and the use of tools like water flossers or interdental brushes can make a significant difference.

4. Minimally Invasive Treatments: Seniors with health concerns or limited ability to sit for long dental procedures may benefit from less invasive treatment options. For example, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a quick, paint-on medication that can arrest decay without the need for drilling and filling. We also offer custom-made trays for delivering gel medication to combat gum disease.

Let Us Help Your Senior Community Thrive

At Wisteria Dental Care, we would love to serve the senior members of our community. Whether they need routine dental care or have specific dental concerns, we are here to help. One of our core values is investing in the health of our community, which is why we offer presentations and dental screenings for senior living communities. 

Let us support you or your loved ones in maintaining their smiles and overall health as they age. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule a visit.

Wishing you and your loved ones good health,

Dr. Patel and the Wisteria Dental Care Team

Happy New Year!

January 13th, 2025

by: Dr. Hema Patel

Happy New Year Wisteria Dental Care Family!