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Why is dental health important?
In Singapore, it is estimated that 1 out of 3 Singaporeans aged 60 and above are totally toothless. When dealing with ageing issues, many tend to neglect dental care and instead focus on other health issues such as diabetes, cancer or heart issues.
Yet, did you know that in reality, oral health is closely linked to all these health issues as well?
Read on to find out why dental hygiene is of utmost importance!
Good dental hygiene helps to…
1. Lower the risk of getting a heart attack
Arteries may swell in response to bacterial infections which increases the risk of getting a heart attack. With a good oral hygiene, bacteria accumulation can be prevented. Hence, helping your ageing parent reduce the risk of getting a heart attack, stroke and other serious complications.
2. Prevent tooth loss for better nutrition
With missing teeth, one will not be able to enjoy fresh food options. It becomes harder to eat fruits and vegetables as they no longer have the capability to chew properly. As such, they will start to lack the required nutrients to keep them healthy, forming a vicious cycle as their general health will be affected as well.
3. Prevent gum disease and infection
If your loved ones’ teeth are not taken care properly, plague may start to build up along and under the gum line, causing infections that damage the gums. A common form of gum disease in older adults is gingivitis.
Common symptoms of gingivitis may include:
Red and swollen gums that bleed easily
Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
Tenderness or pain when chewing food
How to maintain a stable dental care regime?
1. Remind your loved ones to brush teeth at least twice a day
Getting a soft, electric toothbrush may help to make dental hygiene easier as they will only need to move it around their teeth.
2. Remind them to floss their teeth regularly
Through daily flossing, plaque buildup and gum disease can be prevented.
3. Go for a dental check-up at least once a year
Prevention is better than cure. A dental treatment will help to highlight any problems to ensure treatment can be done before it is too late. Without a visit to the dentist, untreated infections can affect the surrounding tissues of the mouth, gums and bones that supports the teeth. Hence, making it worse than before.
Dental hygiene is essential – regardless of whether one has all teeth, a few missing teeth or none at all. With a healthy mouth, you can eat what you love without having to worry about the pain.
Call your dentist to make an appointment today, before it is too late.