Tomorrow marks the start of National Oral Health Month, a good time to check-in on your teeth and gums. Your oral health is an important part of your overall health and something that should be prioritized as a part of your regular routine. Older adults are at particularly high risk for oral health problems, and poor oral health has been linked to many health risks, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, poor nutrition, glycemic control in people with diabetes and respiratory infection. Despite this growing body of evidence, the mouth seems to be forgotten and neglected.
As you get older, there are more changes in your teeth and gums which means they require more care, rather than less. Common challenges include missing teeth, gum/periodontal disease, root decay, dry mouth (caused by medications) and more. There are many reasons that oral care can be neglected including a reduction in dexterity and independence, and limited financial resources in retirement. Including costs for regular care as part of your financial planning will help to ensure you have the resources needed should your dental care needs increase. Some provinces have programs to support low income individuals and seniors.
Poor oral health can impact your overall wellbeing in your 'golden years'. Adopting healthy oral habits, like reducing your consumption of sugary foods and sweetened beverages, daily brushing and flossing of your teeth, and regular dental check-ups can go a long way.
