CARING FOR THE ORAL NEEDS OF YOUR LOVED ONE WITH DEMENTIA

CARING FOR THE ORAL NEEDS OF YOUR LOVED ONE WITH DEMENTIA

Posted by Timothy M. Lane Jan 11,2016

This is a thumbnail image of blog CARING FOR THE ORAL NEEDS OF YOUR LOVED ONE WITH DEMENTIA

Let’s face it. We would all love to feel and function like we did when we were in our 40’s. Unfortunately, that’s not the way it works. As dental professionals we have seen many fully functioning adults slip into Dementia. Along with the memory issues, we see an inability to care for their mouth as they once did. A trouble free mouth for many decades can turn into quick forming cavities, gum disease, discomfort and expensive dentistry.

While there is no perfect fix for this situation the following tips may help:

1. Remind your loved one at each meal to swish with water vigorously a couple times after eating. Food tends to literally just lay on the gum line and in between the teeth for hours and sometimes days before being swallowed. A water pik would be a valuable tool if they are able to use one.

2. Switch to a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste (your dentist can dispense one). It will deliver almost 5 times more fluoride than an over the counter toothpaste. It is also a good idea to brush once a day with a dry brush, perhaps while they are sitting or watching a TV show so they do not rush. Prompt them along the way, “remember to massage the gums on your bottom molars inside”, “massage those gums on your smile teeth, top and bottom”, etc.

3. Increase the frequency of their dental hygiene appointments, typically every 3 months—although sometimes sooner is necessary. Make sure to have a professional fluoride treatment at each visit!

4. You are always welcome to come back during your loved one’s appointment, and the hygienist will be happy to review any oral hygiene concerns and give personal tips for oral home care.

At Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland in Altamonte Springs, we understand what it takes to maintain healthy teeth and maintain good oral health.  If you have any questions about your oral health, please contact us online or call us at (407) 830-9800.

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