As individuals age, their immune systems weaken, exposing them to a plethora of potential medical conditions that threaten their overall health, putting them at risk of developing various life-threatening conditions. But these complications do not only apply to things like organ failure, brain disorders, or cancer, it also pertains to oral health as well. Elderly adultsare more susceptible to periodontal disease, cavities, and tooth loss, all which have a direct impact on other aspects of their health.
For seniors that reside in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities, monitoring their health and providing care for complicated health problems that arise is challenging enough for nursing home staff. What is even worse is that prioritizing oral health shouldn’t be complicated, yet it is so often neglected, especially in assisted living facilities. This type of care is accessible and not only works to prolong the health of their teeth and gums, allowing them to keep their natural teeth longer and avoid more complicated dental procedures, but has a direct impact on the state of their overall health as well.
If left untreated, oral pain often becomes so excruciating that the only solution seems to be resorting to visiting an emergency room in an attempt to resolve the pain. But what many don’t realize is that there are also medical conditions that send elderly adults to the hospital that could have been prevented if proper oral care was implemented from earlier on.
Emergency hospital visits that were a direct result of insufficient oral care have increased substantially over the past ten years. Around 830,000 visits that have occurred in emergency rooms across the country every year are due to inadequate oral care. This number is alarming, but it provides insight into just how important oral hygiene and oral health are for elderly individuals. It also strengthens the link between poor oral health and more serious medical complications that require hospitalization.
Better oral hygiene prevents serious dental issues that could be painful and more complex to resolve. It also supports better physical health, which could help to prolong an individual’s life, and keeps them from developing irreversible complications that could alter the way in which they live.
At Onsite Dentists Of Texas, we want the best for our clients and we know that to give them the best means to put their oral health above all else. Your elderly parents are as important to us as they are to you – we consider them part of our family. If you want to protect their health, consider making us their dentist of choice! We will bring our services – equipment and all – directly to the long-term facility they reside in, so you don’t have to worry about finding a way to transport them to a traditional office. Contact us today!