Golden Years Hygiene
Dry mouth can interfere with a person’s ability to speak, taste, chew and swallow. A person with dry mouth may experience pain, irritation or difficulty in using their dentures. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop and progress faster in an environment of dry mouth because dental plaque tends to accumulate faster when saliva production is decreased. The topics in this section include:
Xerostomia (dry mouth)
- A common problem among many elderly
- Dry mouth is caused by side effects of using certain medications such as,
- antidepressants
- antihistamines
- anti-hypertensives
- anti-psychotics
- anti-parkinsonism
- anti-inflammatory
- There are over 400 medications cause dry mouths.
Steps to reduce tooth decay
- Providing the medication in pill form
- Sugar free alternatives
- Take medication with meal
- Scheduling regular preventive care
Dentures
Dentures can enhance your health and your life. They help you speak, chew and support your facial structures.
Care- Clean your dentures after meals and before going to bed.
- Dentures should be left out of your mouth for at least 4 hrs a day.
- Have your dentist check your mouth regularly.
- If you notice any changes in your soft oral tissues, report them to your dentist.
Maintenance
Maintenance is required if your dentures click, slip, feel loose or inhibit chewing, smiling or laughing. Your denture may need relining, rebasing, or remaking due to normal wear.
- Relining: adding material to the underside of the denture to conform to the gums.
- Rebasing: A new base is made using the existing denture teeth and remaking the denture base.
- Replacing your denture: Varies for each patient. Your jaw and soft tissues may change enough within 5-6 years that you may need a new one.
Problems?
When problems with denture arise, take the problem directly to your dentist. Do not use over the counter glues or repair kits. They often have harmful chemicals and are ineffective in doing the job.