Dental or oral health is an often neglected aspect in India. Brushing twice a day, rinsing after eating, getting regular checkups done, etc. are not as common as they should be. Most often people end up at a dentist’s place only when it is unavoidable.
Also, dental treatment is expensive in India, hence, most people try to avoid it as much as possible. A simple consultation starts from Rs 500 and cleaning, extraction, root canal, caps, etc. cost much more. Dental implants are not easily affordable by most. Unless one has specifically sought insurance that covers dental treatment, the costs will easily burn a hole in your pocket. Hence, there is a reluctance to approach dental clinics.
Some common dental issues
Poor dental health usually leads to problems in chewing and eating, leading to nutritional issues. Some diseases and their medications can lead to less Salivary flow which also affects eating habits and digestion. High-sugar diets affecting the teeth, alcohol or tobacco use, improper hygiene or not caring for dentures properly, etc. are other common issues affecting dental health.
There is also the cosmetic aspect that can put pressure, especially, on seniors. When you get older, the facial muscle may weaken, tooth loss can make you look different or older, etc. Changes occur to not just teeth, but lip curves, and the mucosal lining of the mouth, tongue, gums, and jawbones.
A common problem seen in seniors which are often ignored is dry mouth. This is the result of some medical conditions and related medicines. Medicines like antihistamines, decongestants, anti-anxiety or hypertension medicines, pain killers, etc. can cause this problem. A dry mouth in turn leads to cavities, and iron deficiency can cause burning mouth syndrome. Enamel thinning and gum disease called periodontal disease are also commonly seen in seniors.
Related issues
Gum diseases increase your risk of heart diseases and can make certain heart conditions worse. Gum diseases are also said to affect the blood sugar levels of a person. So, the dental visit that we have been putting off may be causing us more harm than we thought. Older adults with poor dental health are also at higher risk of developing bacterial pneumonia. Untreated dental issues can cause oral abscesses in seniors that can turn quite serious as their immune systems are weakened. Improper dental hygiene leading to bacterial accumulation can even cause strokes and life-threatening complications. Therefore, overall, for good health, it is important to maintain oral hygiene and avail of good dental services periodically.
Some general tips
Here are simple tips to follow for good dental health
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a dentist-recommended brush and toothpaste. This recommendation is to ensure that if your teeth need some special care, that is being taken care of.
- Rinse your mouth using mouth rinses or normal water after eating.
- Use dental flosses, if you have been advised to do so.
- Replace the toothbrush every three to four months.
- If using dentures, clean them also properly as suggested by the doctor and follow all precautions.
- Visit a dental professional at least twice a year for check-ups.
- If you feel any sensitivity, change of taste, swelling, bleeding, etc. kindly consult the dentist without delay.
- Avoid self-medicating for tooth issues as there are times when home remedies can complicate the matters.
A little change in our approach to dental health can help us stay healthier and happier overall.
I hope the above information will be useful for your good health.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
7th June 2022