Dental and oral (mouth) care for seniors is important for maintaining your oral health and overall well-being. As people age, they may have dental, mouth and throat changes that require attention and care.
Tips & Links
- It is recommended to continue to see your dentist for regular check-ups, cleaning and detecting mouth (oral), gum, and throat problems. Further recommendations for dental care for seniors are outlined in Healthlink BC.
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth at least 2x/ day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. If you have dentures, they should be cleaned regularly. Dentures should be removed at night to allow the gums to rest. Learn more about senior’s dental and oral health from the BC Dental Association.
- Ensure you inform your dentist or dental hygienist about any change in your health, recent surgery or treatments, and all medications, herbs, and supplements that you are taking.
- If you have had surgery within a year, ask your surgeon if you should be on antibiotics prior to any dental care.
- Stay hydrated: changes in care and medications can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth leading to dental problems and difficulty swallowing.
- Be aware that health benefits paid for by an employer may be discontinued after retirement. Seniors may need to purchase dental care benefits or pay for care directly. Your medical services plan only covers dental surgery that is completed in a hospital setting.
- Ensure you understand your dental costs, fees, and dental plans as described by the BC Dental Association.
- Persons on income assistance or who have disabilities may be eligible for supplementary benefits or for BC dental benefits.
Tools – Handouts & Videos
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