According to data, around 57% of people between 65 and 74 in the USA wear dentures. Another study shows that 54% of adults aged 75 have Arthritis. Logically, most seniors with Arthritis will find it challenging to clean and maintain their dentures.
Truly, having arthritis restricts one’s movements in old age. Aging and physical problems make denture care for seniors with Arthritis difficult.
This blog discusses tips that can help seniors with arthritis navigate the cleaning and maintenance of dentures.
Tips On Dental Care For Seniors With Arthritis
Dentures are a great assistant of seniors in leading a normal life with lost teeth. Consult an orthotontist specialist for dentures Peachtree Corners to ensure the highest quality dentures.
Dentures need to be cared for to stay clean and stain-free. Daily maintenance helps prevent bad breath and plaque buildup.
However, elderly adults with Arthritis find this maintenance a problem. These tips can help seniors tackle the challenges of managing dentures.
1. Denture Care For Seniors With Arthritis: Be Focused On Diet
A balanced diet is crucial for seniors wearing dentures. Choosing the right food can ensure comfort and the maintenance of the dentures’ longevity. Here are some food options suitable for seniors with Arthritis:
- Steamed Vegetables
- Smoothies.
- Yogurt.
- Mashed potatoes.
- Fish.
These food substances are easy to consume and do not easily stick to dentures. This food can be considered denture-friendly. However, here is a list of foods that seniors with dentures need to eliminate from their diet:
- Hard foods like candies, nuts, and popcorn can damage dentures.
- Tough foods like meat add pressure on the teeth and gums.
- Sticky candies like gelatin or sugar-free puddings must be off the list.
- Raw vegetables like Carrots.
2. Simplifying The Denture Care Routine
Denture adhesive is deemed perfect for seniors struggling with dexterity. It prevents the need for constant repositioning of the dentures.
Apart from the denture adhesive, cleaning tablets can be highly effective. Seniors can dissolve them in water and soak the dentures overnight. They help aid in easy cleaning and maintenance.
Even electric toothbrushes can be practical tools for denture cleaning.
3. Emotional Support
Encouraging a positive mindset and patience makes denture care easy for seniors with Arthritis. Caregivers need to play an essential role in helping them manage their dentures. This might include assisting in cleaning and fitting them back into the mouth.
4. Managing Dry Mouth
Seniors with Arthritis must follow certain medications for specific dental issues. These medications can make the mouth dry, making wearing dentures difficult.
Drinking adequate water can help combat this issue. In addition to sufficient water, they can consume sugar-free gums, which help stimulate saliva production.
5. Go For Non-Removable Dentures
Non-removal dentures or fixed dentures are most suitable for seniors with arthritis. They have numerous advantages, one of which is stability. These non-removable dentures are tightly attached to the mouth.
Moreover, the stability can help them clean and maintain the dentures, especially for those who have experienced issues with shifting dentures in the past. You can consider the strategy of denture care for seniors with Arthritis.
A combination of strategies can help seniors with Arthritis maintain their dentures independently. However, they are highly recommended to visit an orthodontic professional for regular checkups of oral health and denture condition. Frequent checkups with our dentists can help denture care for seniors with Arthritis.
