Brushing and Flossing

Controlling plaque

Teeth that are thoroughly cleaned daily are less likely to decay. Chronic gingivitis will heal and periodontal disease may be kept in control if meticulous daily plaque control is maintained. The buildup and retention of plaque in the elderly is often exacerbated by faulty fillings, missing or tipped teeth, dentures, and gingival recession. Plaque build up may be accelerated by mouth breathing, diminished salivary function, and the frequency, choice and consistency of food (often, soft and sweet). Moreover, some elderly have difficulty in removing plaque because of diminished manual dexterity, dementia and visual impairment. Correctly brushing and flossing can help control plaque.

Tooth brushes and floss

Tooth brushes and other oral home care implements can often easily be altered and adjusted to better service an older adult with disability. Home oral hygiene may be made more efficient by changing to an electric toothbrush which can compensate for limitations in fine motor movement. It's enlarged handle has proven to be comfortable in an aging hand (Mulligan, 1980). Special implements to facilitate the cleaning of hard to reach areas (i.e. around crown, bridgework, and individual standing teeth) include a variety of dental floss (waxed; non waxed; flat; round; textured; with baking soda; with fluoride), and dental floss holders. Assistive devices for dental care are available in many drugstores or through medical sipply providers.

Mouth washes

Antimicrobial mouth rinses, especially chlorhexidine solutions, may be helpful in plaque control, but they do not fight bacteria in the deep periodontal pockets. Chlorhexidine rinses can cause reversible problems such as staining of the oral cavity and alterations in taste. Long-term use of chlorhexidine rinses increase the chances of adverse reactions such as ulcers and Candidiasis.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by what you eat. The food you consume can affect the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as onion and garlic, are bothersome and the odor persists until the food is eliminated from the body. Toothpastes and mouthwashes will only temporarily mask the odor. Bad breath can also be a symptom of peridontal disease or poor oral hygiene.