TEETH WISDOM: Bone density and immune systems naturally weaken as people age, which effects oral health by increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. However, patients can retain their teeth for a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.

Another issue many older patients with physical and mental disabilities have, is routine oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing. Sometimes this is due to problems with dexterity, like not being able to firmly grasp a toothbrush or complete the motions needed to clean their teeth properly. This can be overcome by utilizing an electric toothbrush (there are many brands on the market), a waterpik (Waterpik), or an Air Flosser (made by Phillips Sonicare). Handles of these devices can also be modified with straps to help hold them.

Many older, disabled patients have caregivers, or they live in retirement homes with assisted living care. Caregivers must understand the importance of maintaining a loved one or patient’s oral health.

Another issue is lost dentures. You have no idea how many dentures I’ve had to remake because a caregiver has lost or accidentally thrown out a patient’s denture. Dentures can be made with the patient’s name on them, which helps caregivers make sure the right patient has the right denture. It is also essential to place dentures in a regular spot where the denture can soak overnight, and the patient and caregiver will always know where it is.

Often, the food served in nursing homes and other senior living facilities is cooked softer to make it easier for patients to chew and

prevent choking. The downside is that soft foods can get stuck between a patient's teeth and be more difficult to remove. This can cause decay in between and circumferentially around the teeth. Thus, it's important to ensure caregivers understand and properly maintain their patient's oral hygiene.

Regular dental checkups are also a must. It is far better to catch a cavity early, than wait until it is a bigger, more severe problem. Older patients with higher levels of decay may consider seeing their dentist as frequently as every 2-4 months to keep things manageable, even if just to get an exam. It is far less expensive to do small fillings than to have to do major dental work.

“REGULAR DENTAL CHECKUPS ARE ALSO A MUST. IT IS FAR LESS EXPENSIVE TO DO SMALL FILLINGS THAN TO HAVE TO DO MAJOR DENTAL WORK.”

A ging is a natural process and doesn't have to result in patients suffering painful dental problems, losing their teeth, or being unable to chew properly and enjoy their food. Patients can retain their teeth for a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Maintaining good oral health also significantly contributes to more personal confidence and a better quality of life. •

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Scott Ruvo, DDS graduated from University of Illinois Chicago Dental School and has been in private practice in Sparta NJ for over 25 years. Dr. Ruvo is an attending at the Morristown Hospital Dental clinic where he enjoys teaching residents. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and is a Trustee in the New Jersey Dental Association. Dr. Ruvo grew up and lives in Sussex County, where he enjoys fishing, hiking, biking and Photography, with his wife and two children.