Living with arthritis can be challenging, especially when it starts affecting your daily activities, such as brushing and flossing your teeth. Maintaining dental hygiene is crucial for the overall health of seniors, even though arthritis can make this routine task difficult. Learn some simple tips, adaptive tools, and best practices from Senior Helpers to help keep your teeth healthy despite having arthritis.
What Are the Challenges?
Arthritis can significantly impact hand dexterity and grip strength. This can make it difficult to handle a toothbrush or use dental floss effectively. Many seniors with arthritis may find it difficult to maintain a firm grip or experience stiffness and pain when performing even the simplest of tasks. These issues can make keeping up with dental hygiene a daily struggle and increase the risk of oral health problems such as cavities and gum disease.
How to Adapt Your Dental Care Routine
It is sometimes necessary to adapt your dental care habits to overcome the discomforts and limitations of arthritis. Here are a few things you can do:
- Switch to an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are a great solution for those with arthritis. They require less manual effort as they do most of the brushing for you. When choosing an electric toothbrush, look for one with a large handle for a better grip and a pressure sensor to prevent gum damage.
- Use a water flosser. Traditional flossing can be tough if you have limited hand dexterity. A water flosser uses water pressure to clean between your teeth and is typically easier to use and gentler on the gums. When selecting a water flosser, choose one with adjustable pressure settings for comfort.
- Get a toothpaste pump dispenser. A pump toothpaste dispenser allows you to apply toothpaste to your brush with just the push of a button. This eliminates the need for squeezing the toothpaste tube.
Best Practices for Dental Hygiene
Establish a consistent dental care routine and use techniques that simplify brushing and flossing. Consider setting specific times each day for dental care, and use dental products for sensitive or aging teeth. Opt for toothpaste and mouthwash that are gentle yet effective for maintaining oral health. Get regular dental checkups and be sure to discuss any arthritis-related challenges with your dentist. They can recommend solutions tailored to your needs. Consult your dentist to determine whether more frequent dental visits may be necessary to maintain optimal oral health.
Senior Helpers Provides Quality Personal Care
Senior Helpers is your number-one name in compassionate, in-home senior care services. If you live in the Charlotte, Pineville, Mint Hill, or Concord areas, don't hesitate to contact us at Senior Helpers Charlotte. You don't have to manage the challenges of maintaining dental hygiene alone. Our trained caregivers offer comprehensive personal care services and are ready to assist with brushing, flossing, and other daily activities to ensure you get the proper dental care you deserve.