Health Topics for Aging

Nursing Homes/Care Centers

Geriatric Assessment Clinic

Mouth care

Just because we get older does not mean we outgrow the need to visit a dentist. As we age, less saliva is produced in the mouth so its natural cleansing action is lost. Medication can also decrease the flow of saliva and cause dry mouth. The gums shrink and expose areas of each tooth to potential infection or decay. Changes in the gums and the jawbones can also effect denture wearers. Dentures may not fit as well and will need to be reflected or new ones may be needed. Older adults are at higher risk for oral cancer. These are all reasons to see a dentist at least once a year. A dentist can offer advice and provide appropriate care for all of these issues.

Caring for your mouth is very important. The reason many people have to get dentures is not because they have bad teeth. A person with bad gums and good teeth may require dentures, because their gums will not support their teeth. Flossing helps keep gums healthy. If you have trouble managing dental floss, it now comes in pre-cut strips. There are also over-the-counter products that can help with flossing.

If brushing has become difficult because of physical limitations, consider using an electric toothbrush. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist to show you the best way to use it. There are other adaptive tools they may recommend to you that will help care for your teeth and gums.

Dry mouth can be relieved temporarily with sugarless candies or gum. Chips of ice or sips of water will help. It is also very helpful to use lip lubricants daily.

If you are already wearing dentures, you still have to take care of your mouth. Keep your dentures and mouth clean to prevent stained teeth, bad breath, and aching gums. Care for your dentures as directed by your dentist. If you have partial dentures, be especially careful to clean around the clasps.

Brush your gums and tongue with a soft bristle toothbrush. If you tend to get bad breath or still have some teeth, put a small amount of regular toothpaste on the brush. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water in the morning, after meals, and before bed. Put your dentures in water or cleaning solution at night, or follow the instructions for your particular type of dentures.

New dentures can feel funny, especially when you get your first ones. Talk to your dentist about what to expect when wearing and caring for them. Ask how the dentures will feel while you are getting used to them, and how you can tell if something is wrong. Be patient while adjusting to them and wait a while on the steak dinner.

It is very important that red or white spots or other sores in the mouth that do not go away within 2 weeks are evaluated by your dentist within a few days. Persistent mouth sores can be an early sign of oral cancer.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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