Oral Health Care for Older Adults Our mouths are complex environments with multiple bacteria species coexisting on our teeth, gums, tongues and soft tissues. In older adults with one or more medical conditions, including weakened lung defense mechanisms, poor cough reflexes, impaired immune status and declining functional status; oral hygiene care is particularly important. INFECTED GUMS
Periodontitis (Gum Disease) is now linked to a variety of health concerns including: • Heart Disease • Lung Disease • Stroke • Diabetes
Bacteria in neglected mouths may be inhaled into the lungs and cause lung infections and pneumonia. They can also be carried in the bloodstream to the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. For diabetics with poor blood sugar control, they are more susceptible to gum disease.
Bacteria and other poisonous toxins enter your general circulation through diseased gum tissue and infect the rest of your body!
ARTERY Bacteria & Toxins
LIVER
Preventive Measures Daily oral care is important to remove the build-up of dental plaque thereby reducing the bacterial load in the mouth. This includes maintenance of dentures and other dental prostheses.
Depending on the individual’s functional ability and cognitive level, oral care can be customised with various cleaning aids and products. A dentist or dental therapist will be able to offer advice.
• Brush your teeth twice a day
Good oral care leads to improved well-being, better chewing ability and nutrition.
• Use dental floss or interdental brush to clean teeth at least once a day
Specifically, for you and/or your
• Clean the mouth, tongue and teeth after every meal
loved ones, we recommend:
• Brush your dentures and remove them before sleep
Triple-headed toothbrush
• Cut down on sugary food and drinks
Dental floss
• Visit the dentist regularly
Fluoride toothpaste
Dental examinations will help detect gum disease, oral infections and tooth decay. For those wearing dentures, dental bridges or implants, they too need to be inspected for fit and breakages.
Soft-bristle toothbrush Interdental brush Gauze/Oral foam swab Alcohol-free mouthwash Chlorhexidine mouthwash
Yishun Health Campus is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
DENT.PE.02.0121