Is Mom Struggling with Oral Hygiene and needs Help?

Senior Care in Marina Del Rey – Happy Teeth = Happy Health

One of the many difficult circumstances a family caregiver might find themselves in is looking after and evaluating the dental care of an elderly parent. It may be challenging at first, but there are some simple procedures to learn when providing oral care. Always be sure to consult a dentist for advice and further information.

If your elderly loved one has “Natural Teeth,” not dentures, follow these simple steps:

1. Stand behind your mother or father to brush and floss their teeth
2. Place the person sitting in front of the sink. This will make brushing and flossing their teeth similar to brushing your own.
3. Use a soft manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush. Some electric toothbrushes have specific settings for a gentler brushing motion. Ultimately, make sure your senior parent is comfortable and the brushing motion is not too aggressive.
4. Practice having your loved one rinse with warm water when brushing is complete.

For complete or partial dentures, follow these tips:

1. Both kinds of dentures must be cleaned daily. Be sure to inspect the denture for cracks.
2. Have your parent tell you or show you how to remove the denture.
3. Fill the sink with water, scrub the denture with a dental brush, and rinse with water when cleaning is complete.
4. Soak the denture overnight in either a special cleaner, warm water, or warm water and vinegar.

For seniors with mouth tissue, follow these steps:

1. Ask if it is ok to look inside your mother or father’s mouth.
2. Check the mouth closely. Look for swelling, red and white patches, parts of the gum that may have changed color, or sores that fail to heal in a few days. Call the dentist immediately if you see any of these symptoms.
3. To clean your senior’s mouth, massage with a damp cloth or soft toothbrush.

Assessing your parent’s dental health is something that takes practice and time. Set a routine and learn the likes and dislikes of the person you are caring for. Some things may work better than others, be patient and make sure that your loved one is not in pain at any time.

Ultimately, refer any questions or concerns to a dentist. You may also want to consult with a hired caregiver; having someone from senior care services come to your parent’s home is the best way to keep on top of oral health. Someone who is experienced at helping seniors with their dental care and personal hygiene can better take care of your mother or father. Sometimes it’s hard to know how to care for your parent, or to convince them they need more help, so the help of a professional caregiver can be just what you both need.

There’s no one answer to the question of when the time is right for in-home care.

However, if you consider the points raise here today, you’ll have a better idea of when it’s time for in-home care.

And, if you have any follow-up questions, please contact us (310) 400-6869…we are always here to assist…You are Important to Us!

We pride ourselves in the Best In-Home Care!

Caregiving for You, Inc.