How many prescriptions and OTC medications are you taking?
39% of adults age 65 and over take 5 or more prescription medications. Many of these drugs have dental side effects, including xerostomia (dry mouth). This is very damaging to your oral health! Here are helpful modifications that can help this condition:
Lifestyle Modifications-
- Hydrate regularly: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These substances can dehydrate the body.
- Use a humidifier: Add moisture to the air, especially at night.
- Breathe through your nose: Mouth breathing can dry out the oral cavity.
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables: These stimulate saliva production.
Dietary Changes-
- Consume foods rich in vitamin A: Such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and eggs.
- Include foods with zinc: Such as nuts, seeds, and oysters.
- Consider using sugar-free gum or lozenges: These can stimulate saliva production.
Herbal Remedies-
- Aloe vera: Apply aloe vera gel to the inside of the mouth or drink aloe vera juice.
- Ginger: Chew on a piece of ginger or drink ginger tea.
- Peppermint: Use peppermint oil or tea to soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Chamomile: Drink chamomile tea to reduce inflammation and promote hydration.
Other Tips-
- Use an over-the-counter dry-mouth mouthwash: Look for products containing xylitol or saliva substitutes. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash products.
- Apply lip balm: Keep lips hydrated and protected from dryness.
- See a dentist: Rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing dry mouth.
Do you remember to brush twice per day?
This can be a sensitive topic, but severe cognitive impairment increases the risk of periodontal diseases and infections. Set an alarm clock or an alarm on a cell phone to help remind you to take two minutes to brush your teeth.
Do you have arthritis?
Daily functions like brushing and flossing can become much more difficult with this condition. Some might be tempted to skip them altogether. Electric toothbrushes and flossing tools which can be a lot easier on painful joints.
In addition, if you are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) you are at an elevated oral health risk. RA can cause gingivitis, periodontitis, and other serious conditions.
Do you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease?
Heart disease and diabetes are DIRECTLY linked to oral health. Make sure that you do not forget your regular dental checkups twice per year (at least!), maintain excellent oral hygiene, and continue to control your blood sugar levels.
Are you experiencing hearing loss?
If you cannot hear us, let us know!! I know that during the time during COVID when everyone was wearing a mask, I could not hear anyone. It was so very frustrating to have people saying things that I could not hear AND I read lips, so I could not see what they were saying either! Make sure you let your providers know if you cannot hear what they are saying, or you are confused by what they say. Please ask!
Are you experiencing vision loss?
If you are having trouble in a bright treatment room, ask for the blinds to be closed to reduce the glare. If you have trouble seeing forms, staff can help create more accommodating formats. Please advocate for yourself in any clinical setting to be sure to maximize your time with your providers!