Keeping Your Loved One's Mouths Healthy as They Age

September 14th, 2020

Remember to Floss – Flossing is still a vital part of oral hygiene. Help your loved one out by buying them dental floss picks or angled flossers that have a small piece of floss attached to an easy-to-hold base. Make sure not to force it in between the teeth, though, or you could do more harm than good.

Check Their Breath (Discretely) – Bad breath is a red flag for gum disease or an infected tooth. If their breath smells rancid shortly after brushing and flossing, make an appointment for an exam.

Being a caregiver is both an honor and a significant life change. It can be overwhelming, but keeping your loved one at home a while longer is a great reward. Remember that change can be challenging for the elderly, too, especially if they have a cognitive impairment like dementia or Alzheimer's. With these tips, helping your aging parent or family member keep their mouth healthy is one less thing to worry about.