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Dental care for older people |
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Am I certain to lose my teeth? |
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No. With the right home care and help from your dentist and hygienist, it is possible to keep your teeth for life. Gum disease and tooth decay can be prevented whatever your age.
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What particular problems may older people have? |
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Your gums may recede (shrink back) as you get older, and your teeth may become a little more sensitive as a result. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to show you the best brushing methods to keep any gum problems under control, and may suggest a mouthwash to deal with the sensitivity.
Normal cleaning may become rather more difficult if you have problems with your hands or arms, or if your eyesight is less than perfect. Again, you can get help and advice on the best aids to use. A magnifying mirror and a good light, are often helpful.
If you have lost some teeth in the past, and have bridges or dentures, you may have particular cleaning needs and difficulties. Your dentist or hygienist can help you with.
Some people take regular medication which makes their mouths dry. Saliva helps to protect teeth against decay, so if you have less saliva than usual ask your dentist for advice. Or you can get special products, including artificial saliva, over the counter in most chemists.
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Should I expect to have problems with my gums? |
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Gum problems are caused by a build-up of bacteria called ‘plaque’, which forms constantly on your teeth and gums. It is important to remove this plaque to avoid gum inflammation. If the plaque is not removed, the gum inflammation will, in time, affect the bone under the gums. This bone supports the tooth roots, so your teeth may gradually become loose.
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How do I know if I have gum disease? |
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As it is often painless, many people may not know that they have gum disease. Some common signs are: gums that bleed when brushed; teeth that are loose; receding gums and bad breath. Not everyone has all these signs. You may only have one.
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Can I still get tooth decay? |
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Yes. The same dental plaque which causes gum inflammation can cause decay, particularly when combined with sugary foods and drinks. There is a particular risk of decay at the gum edge when the gum has receded as the ‘neck’ of the tooth is not protected by enamel.
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How can I prevent gum disease and tooth decay? |
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Thoroughly remove plaque from your teeth (and dentures if you have them) at least twice a day.
-Use fluoride toothpaste. There are many special toothpastes on the market, including tartar control and total care toothpastes.
-You should clean in between your teeth at least once a day using interdental products that suit you.
-Cut down on how often you have food and drinks containing sugar.
-Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly.
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What do I need to clean my teeth properly? |
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You need a small-headed, medium–textured toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. To help clean between your teeth you could use an interspace brush, tape, woodsticks or floss. If you have arthritis you may find it difficult to grip a toothbrush handle, but you can get handle adapters. Electric toothbrushes are also ideal for people with limited movement. The handles are thicker and easier to hold and the oscillating head does most of the work. There are many products available, and your dentist or hygienist can help you decide which are best for you.
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How do I know if I have removed all the plaque? |
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Plaque can be stained with food dye painted on your teeth with a cotton bud, or with special ‘disclosing tablets’ from the dentist.
This stain is harmless and will show any areas of your mouth which need closer attention. Look particularly where the teeth and gums meet. A further brushing will remove the stained plaque.
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What if I need dentures? |
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Dentures replace lost or missing teeth so that you can enjoy a healthy diet and smile with confidence. For more information on dentures and how to take care of them, see our leaflet 'Tell me about Dentures'.
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What causes mouth ulcers? |
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Ulcers can be caused by broken teeth, poorly fitting dentures or sharp pieces of food. Once the cause is removed, ulcers should heal within 3 weeks. If you notice an ulcer which does not heal, see your dentist promptly. Many serious condition, such as mouth cancer, can be better treated if diagnosed early at a routine check-up.
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What if somebody is housebound? |
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Contact your local Primary Care Trust to find out about dentists who will make home visits.
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