Printer-Friendly Version

For Immediate Release
April 2, 2007

For more information:
Erin Weller
(212) 308-1414 x 329

Oral hygiene is important at every age, but for aging seniors proper dental care is an even bigger concern. Daily mouth care is no different for seniors; brushing twice daily, flossing and visits to a dentist twice a year are a good start on the road to a healthy mouth. "The mouth is a place that is often overlooked by seniors and their caregivers, it's not seen as a priority because of other looming health problems," says Barbara Resnick, M.D., member of the American Geriatrics Society. "Other problems are easier to see because they are visible, but problems in the mouth are hidden and not always as obvious, but are just as, if not more important to treat than other ailments."

According to Dr. Resnick, there are key signs that caregivers should watch for that could indicate the need to see a dentist. Early diagnosis can help prevent more serious health problems caused by poor oral hygiene, such as gingivitis and pneumonia.

• Malignancies- it's important to pay attention to changes in the oral tissue of seniors, especially among smokers. Growths, patches or lesions in the mouth could be signs of more serious problems and should be brought to the attention of a health care provider right away.
• Dentures- check for broken or missing pieces, or dentures that no longer fit. Often times, older adults lose body fat, which changes the way dentures fit and can cause mouth pain and discomfort.
• Dry mouth- as we age, saliva production lessens and causes dryness and discomfort of the mouth. Dry mouth is also a common side effect of many medications.
• Bad breath- is often an embarrassing topic for many people to address but it can serve as an indicator for more serious health problems.

"As adults age, simple tasks such as brushing or flossing become difficult due to physical and cognitive changes that occur. There are a variety of products available for seniors who suffer from arthritis, for example, to make the daily task of basic oral care easier," says Dr. Resnick.

Dr. Resnick offers older adults the following tips for healthy oral hygiene.

• Brush and floss twice a day- basic oral hygiene doesn't differ much from that of younger adults. However, due to aging health issues, such as arthritis, these tasks often become more difficult and as a result, may be avoided. Other options include electric toothbrushes or toothbrushes with larger handles for easier gripping. Floss holders have also made flossing easier.
• Use an oral rinse- mouthwash or oral rinses are a good addition to a seniors oral hygiene routine. A simple rinse with water or a salt solution, using one teaspoon of salt in one quart of water can be very effective. Do not use mouthwashes with alcohol, as they tend to dry out the mouth. A health care provider could offer suggestions for the best oral rinse available for specific patients.
• Proper denture care- older adults who wear dentures should take special care of their dentures to avoid infections. Dentures should be cleaned after each meal and should be brushed and thoroughly cleaned once a day, in addition to soaking overnight.

If you would like to speak with Dr. Barbara Resnick regarding the importance of oral hygiene and seniors, please contact Jen Bender at 203-325-8772 x17 or at jbender@environics-usa.com.

ABOUT THE AGS

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society (www.americangeriatrics.org) is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence, and quality of life of all older people. The Society supports this mission through activities in clinical practice, professional and public education, research, and public policy. With an active membership of over 6,500 health care professionals, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies, and practices in geriatric medicine.

ABOUT THE FHA

In 1999, the American Geriatrics Society reached beyond its traditional role as a professional medical society and launched the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging (FHA). The FHA aims to build a bridge between geriatrics health care professionals and the public, and advocate on behalf of older adults and their special needs: wellness and preventive care, self-responsibility and independence, and connections to family and community. The FHA champions initiatives in public education, clinical research, and public policy that advance the principles and practice of geriatrics medicine; educate policy makers and the public on the health care needs and concerns of older adults; support aging research that reduces disability and frailty, and improves quality of life and health outcomes; encourage older adults to be effective advocates for their own health care; and help family members and caregivers take better care of their older loved ones and themselves.