Good oral hygiene is very important for seniors, because dental infections and periodontal disease can cause health problems throughout the body. But as they get older, many seniors struggle to keep up with brushing and flossing because they have difficulty physically brushing their teeth.
Gripping a toothbrush or using tiny dental floss strings can be painful or even impossible for seniors with arthritis or joint pain. So can getting the cap off a tube of toothpaste, lifting a heavy bottle of mouthwash, or squeezing a toothpaste tube.
Personal care at home can help. Seniors with personal care at home get support with showering, brushing their teeth, and other hygiene tasks from care providers who have experience and training.
Your parent may not want to tell you that they are having trouble with a basic task like brushing their teeth because they may be embarrassed. Or, they may be afraid that you’ll think they can’t safely live on their own anymore. So don’t wait for your parent to mention to you that they are having trouble with their oral hygiene.
If you notice any of these signs that your parent is struggling with their oral hygiene, get personal care at home for them right away:
Bad Breath That Does Not Go Away
Persistent bad breath is often one of the first signs that oral care routines are slipping. Ongoing bad breath can be a sign that your parent is not brushing or flossing regularly. Food particles and bacteria build up in the mouth when teeth and gums are not cleaned well.
If bad breath remains even after they brush, it may mean they are brushing too quickly or missing certain areas. Dry mouth, which is common in seniors, can make this worse.
Visible Plaque, Tartar, or Stained Teeth
If you notice yellow or brown buildup on your parent’s teeth, this may be plaque or tartar that has not been removed by brushing.
Seniors with limited hand strength or arthritis may struggle to brush well. Some may forget to brush entirely or stop flossing because it feels difficult or uncomfortable.
Changes in tooth color or buildup along the gum line can signal that daily oral care is not being done properly.
Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Gum problems should not be ignored, as they can lead to tooth loss and infections. Healthy gums are pink and firm. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene.
If your parent complains of sore gums or you notice blood when they brush, it may mean they are not brushing or flossing enough. Some seniors avoid oral care because it hurts, which can make the problem worse.
Complaints About Mouth Pain or Trouble Eating
Pain and eating changes can be signs that oral care is being neglected and dental issues are developing. Seniors who struggle with oral hygiene may start complaining about mouth pain, tooth sensitivity, or difficulty chewing.
They may avoid hard foods, eat less, or choose only soft foods because chewing hurts. Some seniors stop wearing dentures because they feel uncomfortable or sore.
Forgetting or Avoiding Brushing and Flossing
Memory loss, depression, or physical limitations can cause seniors to forget or avoid brushing and flossing.
You may notice unopened toothpaste, a dry toothbrush, or no floss in use. Some seniors may say they already brushed when they have not, or become defensive when asked about oral care. Avoiding these tasks is often a sign that your parent either needs reminders to brush and floss or they need hands-on help.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Personal Care at Home in Chesterfield, MO, please contact the caring staff at Pear Tree Home Care today! (314) 942-9411
Pear Tree Home Care Provides Senior Home Care Services in St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, Town and Country, Clayton, Des Peres, St. Charles, Wildwood, Brentwood, Maryland Heights, Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Arnold, Oakville, Mehlville, Creve Coeur, St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Franklin County, Warren County, Jefferson County, and surrounding areas.
At Pear Tree we’re innovators. Our goal, to create a family of caregivers looking to provide a one of a kind experience to our clientele.
In 2016, our founders noticed a key problem in home care industry that everyone seemed to be ignoring.
It’s too systematic. Home care isn’t one size fits all. Just like people aren’t one size fits all.
That’s where Pear Tree comes in.
We yearn for you to have the best possible care for your loved ones and the peace of mind that comes with knowing they aren’t only in good hands. They’re in great hands. Because, in the end, that’s what we’d want for our family.
It’s proven. When the home care experience is immersive and personalized, you’re going to produce better success rates with healthier family members.
Please, join us in our journey of revolutionizing the home care industry and creating lasting relationships along the way.
This is not the first Home Care agency for Pat, she was the Director of nursing for Kimberly Nurses in 1980 and after the tragic passing of the companies president she opened and co-founded American Nursing Resources Home Health Agency. Pat opened and passed Medicare certification for ANRHHA Clayton and Washington, MO offices.
For Zachary, the name “Pear Tree” is a tribute to his beloved late friend; Wade Abbadessa. Wade worked at his family’s famous restaurant “The Pear Tree” in Macon, until his tragic death in September 2014. Wade lost his battle with a rare form of bone cancer at the young age of 26. His legacy will live on through our company.
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