In a recent Atlanta Journal Constitution article, "Dental Care is Key for Seniors", author Sheila Poole interviewed Dr. Kevin Hendler, director of the geriatric dentistry department at Emory University. Poole and Dr. Hendler discussed the rising need for senior dental care, pointing out that by 2030, 1 in 5 Atlanta area residents will be age 60 or older.
Dr. Hendler's average patient age is 80. In this article, he reminds us that bacteria in the mouth can be a risk factor for cardiac disease, stroke and diabetes. And, because most seniors take medications that cause 'dry mouth', their ability to fight oral bacteria is reduced, making them especially vulnerable to dental infections and thus the risk of complications and serious illness becomes even greater.
Not only is there a health connection, studies show that our smile affects our own self-image, no matter what age we are. Dr. Hendler tells a story about a senior that lost her dentures; she would not attend an event that was being held in her honor because she was embarrassed to be seen without teeth. After helping her with a new set of dentures, she told him, "I'm back".
The Georgia Dental Association has launched an effort to bring oral health education to nursing home residents and caregivers. Volunteers will go into nursing homes and talk about proper brushing, flossing and mouth care, as well as train health care professionals in monitoring patients for signs of dental problems that require attention.
References
Atlanta Journal Constitution, S. Poole, Dental Care is Key for Seniors
http://www.ajc.com/news/lifestyles/health/dentists-urge-seniors-not-to-skimp-on-oral-care/nfhFj/
Georgia Dental Association Nursing Home Program
http://www.gadental.org/nursing-home-program.html.
