Oral health may worsen as one gets older if not properly taken cared of while still young.
According to the American Dental Association, neglecting oral care will put the elderly to an increased risk for caries, periodontal disease and infection, especially those patients with severe cognitive impairment. (www.ada.org/aging and dental health)
Furthermore, neglecting oral health may affect the general health of an individual. Since chewing and taste perception become inadequate in aging, nutrition may be compromised. (PA Razak 2014. Geriatric Oral Health: A Review Article NCBI-NIH. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Poor nutritional status can lead to general poor health condition.
Here are some facts about oral health (www.seniorsoralhealth.org).
Poor oral health has been particularly evident in high levels of tooth loss, dental caries experience and the prevalence rates of periodontal disease, xerostomia (or dry mouth), and oral precancer/cancer. (www.who.int/oral_health publications)
Preventing oral disease therefore will contribute to a good quality of life in senior years.
It is not difficult to achieve good oral health.
Keeping the mouth clean including the teeth, gums and tongue is the cornerstone of achieving good oral health.
The seniorsoralhealth.org has these tips to a healthy mouth:
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