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Oral hygiene of the elderly



As people age, their dental health can significantly impact their overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to various dental problems and also contribute to other health issues. Therefore, the elderly must maintain good dental hygiene to prevent dental problems and maintain their overall health.

Here are some of the dental hygiene conditions that correlate with the health condition of the elderly:


  • Gum disease:

Gum disease is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages, but it's more prevalent among the elderly. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has also been linked to other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent gum disease.

  • Tooth decay:

Tooth decay is another common dental problem that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. The elderly are at a higher risk of tooth decay due to the aging process and the medications they may be taking. Good dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay.

  • Dry mouth:

Dry mouth is a common problem among the elderly, and it can be caused by medications or health conditions such as diabetes. Dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, as saliva helps to wash away food particles and neutralize acids that can cause dental problems. Maintaining good dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly and using fluoride mouthwash can help prevent dental problems associated with dry mouth.

  • Oral cancer:

Oral cancer is a serious health problem affecting anyone, but it's more common among the elderly. The risk of oral cancer increases with age, and it's essential to have regular dental checkups to detect any signs of oral cancer early. Maintaining good dental hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, can help prevent oral cancer.


In conclusion, good dental hygiene practices are essential for maintaining good dental health and preventing dental problems that can lead to other health issues. The elderly are at a higher risk of dental problems, and it's crucial to maintain regular dental checkups and follow good dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly, using fluoride mouthwash, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.

Good dental hygiene practices can help the elderly maintain their overall health and well-being.


 

About Aceso


ACESO is a patient-centric solution for smart and sustainable healthcare, employing a co-creative approach to realize integrated health and oral-care platform in which intelligent devices use data analytics for adaptable health and well-being. ACESO will monitor parameters related to physical health (blood pressure, glucose, heart rate, oxygen saturation, etc.), activity, sleep, and oral hygiene integrative, providing primary users with personalized and adaptive feedback extracted by the underlying artificial intelligence engine. A patient-centric approach involving users in maintaining their health will bring clear benefits for the elderly and caregivers. AAL funds Aceso. More about Aceso...


About AAL


Active Assisted Living Programme

Aging Well in the Digital World - is a funding program that aims to create a better quality of life for older people and strengthen industrial opportunities in healthy aging technology and innovation. More about AAL.



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