Oral Hygiene for Older Adults

You've heard since childhood that brushing and flossing your teeth is important. Failing to do it will lead to a buildup of plaques and bacteria and will lead to infection and inflammation in your gums. But did you know that poor oral hygiene has been connected to heart disease, strokes, and cognitive decline?What happens for all the older adults who can no longer easily get to a dentist's office? It is very common for older adults to reside in a care community or skilled nursing facility. And there are some dental conditions that arise more commonly for older adults because of the medications or dentures that they use. In this episode, registered dental hygienist Cheryl Grier of Your Visiting Hygienist explains the importance of oral hygiene and how she tends to the dental needs of older adults who cannot easily get to a dentist's office.