Good oral hygiene is essential at any age, but it becomes even more important as we get older. Poor oral health can lead to pain, infections, difficulty eating, and even serious health problems like heart disease and pneumonia. Whether your loved one has their own natural teeth, wears dentures, or a combination of both, regular dental care is key to maintaining overall well-being.
At My Homecare Gloucester, we understand that keeping up with oral hygiene can become more challenging with age. That’s why we’re sharing our top reasons why good oral health matters—and how regular care can help your loved one stay comfortable, confident, and healthy.
Why Oral Hygiene Is So Important for Older Adults
✅ Prevents Pain and Infections – Gum disease, tooth decay, and poorly fitting dentures can cause significant discomfort and even lead to infections if left untreated.
✅ Supports Overall Health – Poor oral hygiene has been linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections. Keeping the mouth clean reduces harmful bacteria that can spread to other parts of the body.
✅ Maintains the Ability to Eat Properly – Missing teeth, sore gums, or ill-fitting dentures can make eating difficult, leading to poor nutrition and weight loss. A healthy mouth ensures your loved one can continue to enjoy a balanced diet.
✅ Boosts Confidence and Social Interaction – A healthy smile can help maintain self-esteem and confidence, preventing embarrassment when speaking, eating, or socialising.
✅ Reduces the Risk of Oral Cancer – Regular dental check-ups help detect any early signs of oral cancer, which is more common in older adults.
How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush and Clean Teeth Twice a Day
Whether natural teeth or dentures, brushing twice a day is essential. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean natural teeth and keep gums healthy.
- Don’t Forget to Floss or Use Interdental Brushes
Flossing or using interdental brushes helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth, preventing gum disease. If flossing is difficult, water flossers can be a great alternative.
- Keep Dentures Clean and Well-Fitted
Dentures should be:
✔ Removed at night to allow the gums to rest
✔ Soaked in a denture-cleaning solution overnight to remove bacteria
✔ Brushed daily with a soft brush to prevent plaque build-up
If dentures become loose or uncomfortable, it’s important to see a dentist for adjustments to avoid sore spots and infections.
- Stay Hydrated to Prevent Dry Mouth
Many older adults experience dry mouth due to medication side effects, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. Encourage drinking plenty of water and avoid sugary or acidic drinks. If dry mouth is a problem, try sugar-free gum or saliva substitutes recommended by a dentist.
- Eat a Mouth-Healthy Diet
A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and fibre helps keep teeth and gums strong. Encourage foods like cheese, leafy greens, nuts, and lean protein, and limit sugary snacks that can lead to decay.
- See a Dentist Regularly
Routine dental check-ups help prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Even if your loved one has full dentures, they should still visit a dentist regularly to check for gum health and oral cancer screenings.
- Visit an Oral Hygienist for Deep Cleaning
A professional clean by an oral hygienist removes stubborn plaque and tartar that regular brushing may miss. Hygienists can also advise on better oral care routines and recommend helpful products.
- Be Aware of Changes in the Mouth
Look out for:
🚨 Persistent bad breath
🚨 Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
🚨 Mouth ulcers that don’t heal
🚨 Loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures
🚨 Unusual lumps or white patches
If any of these symptoms appear, schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to prevent further problems.
- Encourage Help with Oral Care If Needed
Some older adults may struggle with dexterity issues, dementia, or mobility problems, making oral care more difficult. Home carers can help remind, assist, and encourage good hygiene habits to keep oral health in check.
- Don’t Ignore Oral Health Just Because of Dentures
Even if a person has no natural teeth, gums and oral tissues still need care. Regular cleaning, keeping dentures well-fitted, and seeing a dentist for routine check-ups are all essential for long-term comfort and health.
Good Oral Hygiene, Better Quality of Life
A healthy mouth means less pain, better nutrition, improved confidence, and overall well-being. At My Homecare Gloucester1q, we encourage and support good oral hygiene as part of our personalised home care services—because looking after oral health is just as important as the rest of the body.
📞 Need help with oral care support at home? Contact us today to learn how our caring team can assist your loved one in maintaining a happy, healthy smile.