Is Your Elderly Parent Visiting the Dentist?

By: Paula Tchirkow
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:20:55
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Did you know that elderly adults are at greater risk for oral cancer than younger people? In fact, research states that those over 65 have more tooth decay than younger generations.

Elderly adults tend to produce less saliva, which cleanses the teeth, and their gums shrink with age exposing vulnerable areas of the teeth to infection and decay.

Dental problems are painful and make chewing difficult, and that can lead to poor nutrition or even weight loss. Your parent may also have difficulty brushing and flossing if they don’t see well, or have poor mobility in their arms, hands and wrists.

Here are five important tips for you to consider for the proper care of your parent’s teeth and mouth:

1. Annual Visits. Schedule at least an annual or bi-annual visit to the dentist for your elderly parent. If your mother or father does not have a dentist, research the dentists in your area to find those who have experience in treating the elderly. Wearing dentures is no excuse to skip regular check-ups. These, like glasses, often need to be refitted.

2. Toothbrushes. If your elderly parent is having trouble managing a regular toothbrush, extend one by taping a sturdy plastic or wooden stick to it, or enlarge it by attaching a plastic foam ball to the handle. An electric toothbrush is another solution. Ask the dental hygienist or dentist to show your parent the correct way to use it.

3. Dry Mouth. If your parent has dry mouth, ask your parent’s pharmacist or doctor if medication may be contributing to the difficulty. If so, he may recommend reducing the dosage. (Note that antihistamines, antihypertensives, diuretics, antidepressants and drugs for Parkinson’s Disease can slow down the normal flow of saliva.) Temporary solutions, until you can reach the physician, include sugarless gum or candy, lip lubricants such as lip baum, sips of water or sucking on ice chips.

4. Swallowing. If your parent has difficulty swallowing, skip or limit the use of toothpaste because he/she may choke on the paste. Instead, use a wet brush or simply wipe the gums and teeth with a wet cloth.

5. Halitosis. Most breath mints and mouthwashes merely cover up bad breath. Odor may be caused by medications or be a warning sign of illness. Make sure your parent brushes the roof of the mouth, the insides of his cheeks, and his tongue, to avoid this problem.

Finally, before taking your elderly parent to the dentist, make a list of all the questions you want to ask this professional, so that all your questions and concerns can be addressed during that visit.

Paula Tchirkow, MSW, LSW, ACSW, a licensed and certified geriatric care manager,(GCM), is president of Pittsburgh-based Allegheny Geriatric Consultants which specializes in geriatric care management for aging parents and seniors who have middle aged adult children suffering from a chronic illness. Visit her website: http://www.caregivingadvice.com

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