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Home Health Aide: Oral Health

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The Home Health Aide: Oral Health

For many seniors, the days of George Washington and wooden teeth did not seem like such a far-fetched concept. In fact, dentures and old age were virtually synonymous. Over the last few decades, the number of seniors who do not need to go down the path of tooth loss, dentures, and oral health misery has increased.

While one of the most important steps in excellent oral health is regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and treatments, there are a number of things that can be done at home as well. Let's take a look at how a home health aide can help your senior loved one maximize their oral health.

One of the most common oral health ailments in seniors is dry mouth. The problem is so widespread that many seniors …show more content…

A home health aide can help your senior loved one identify medications that may be contributing to their dry mouth. Many times alternative medications can be found that lessen the severity of the symptoms. Other things that help are certain mouthwashes and rinses, sucking on sugar-free lozenges, and chewing sugar-free …show more content…

Keeping the body hydrated is not just good for the body, but it keeps the mouth lubricated and washes the food and bacteria off of the teeth and gums.

The American Cancer Society notes that the average age of people suffering from oral cancers is over 62 years of age. The vast majority of these cancers do not cause pain or discomfort in their early stages so detection is done through regular dental care. When problems are not detected early, the gums receded from the teeth and form pockets that collect bacteria. The gums eventually become sensitive, bleed, impact the underlying bone causing tooth loss, and end up causing disease.

Many seniors are not able to properly care for their teeth and gums due to physical or mental limitations. A home health aide can ensure they are reminded to brush and floss daily. They are also able to schedule regular dental visits and even provide transportation to these appointments. When seniors are not able to care for their oral health at all, home health aides can provide this care for

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