Uncategorized | April 9, 2018
To celebrate Oral Cancer Awareness month, we at Comfort Keepers of Ottawa, ON have decided to educate seniors and older adults on common dental concerns, such as gingivitis and oral cancer. Our goal is to provide tips on how to achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums to residents and our in home caregivers.
Many of the most common dental concerns in the senior population include darkened teeth, losing or lost teeth, root decay, dry mouth, loss of the sense of taste, gum disease, and uneven jawbones.
Oral cancer is one of the most serious dental ailment, and can occur anywhere in the mouth area. Seniors with oral cancer often show symptoms of oral cancer such as difficulty chewing or swallowing, lumps, sores, or irritations in the mouth or on the lips or throat, swelling of the jaw, or white or red patches in the mouth.
Fortunately, there are many ways in which an older adult or senior can promote excellent oral hygiene and can prevent oral cancer and other oral conditions. In addition to good habits such as daily brushing and flossing, seniors should make visiting their dentists on a regular basis for oral exams a top priority.
During an oral exam at the dentist, seniors will be asked questions related to any changes in their mouth, tooth sensitivity or looseness, difficulty swallowing or chewing. The dentist will also examine any lumps, bumps, swelling, pain, or discomfort in the mouth.
Seniors who visit a dentist for an oral exam should also expect a dental cleaning, which involves a dentist hygienist removing plaque and tartar buildup, brushing the teeth with a high-powered electric toothbrush, and flossing the teeth in all areas. A hygienist can also provide older adults and seniors with good oral hygiene advice.
If you would like to inquire about our in home caregiver services contact us today!
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