Elder Dentistry

People are living longer, more productive lives due to healthier lifestyles and advances in medical care. Beautiful smiles and dental health are important to our older population, which has many of the same dental concerns of the younger generation.

However, instead of visiting the dentist for routine for Dental Check-ups, about two-thirds of elderly Americans with complex medical issues visit each year as emergencies. The consequences of not receiving routine dental care can be profound. Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet have the experience and knowledge to understand the numerous medications and long-term issues that must considered during dental care. We offer a wide ranges of services.

Some health care issues needing routine dental check-ups:

  • Arthritis often makes it difficult to hold and maneuver a tooth brush and makes flossing very difficult or impossible. Special brushes that are easier to grip can help, as can electric toothbrushes (which require less effort) and floss holders with ergonomically designed handles. People who have difficulty taking care of their teeth at home can also benefit from more frequent visits to our practice for a professional cleaning, oral cancer screening, and a dental exam.
  • Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is an age-related decrease in saliva, frequently made worse by medications taken for health conditions. Dry mouth can contribute to difficulty swallowing, tooth decay, infections, gum disease, and other uncomfortable, painful conditions in the mouth. 
  • Bone loss makes it difficult for dentures to fit comfortably. Please consider a dental check-up with us to evaluate options for better fitting dentures, including implants.
  • Memory loss, confusion, and depression can make a visit with us difficult. Allow us to help by creating a custom maintenance schedule.

How we help to minimize confusion and anxiety for special elderly patients:

  • Minimize noise and other distractions when providing care.
  • Arrange for the trusted caregiver to accompany an elderly patient in the dental care rooms.
  • Our Dental Team will approach the patient from the front, at eye level, using a greater emphasis regarding nonverbal communication, such as smiles and eye contact, to introduce ourselves.
  • To prevent “overload” due to cognitive limitations, instructions will be with simple, short sentences, such as, “Please open you mouth.”

If needed….

  • Please have the family member or caregiver call Dr. Mike or Dr. Janet prior to the appointment to prepare for the elderly patient’s visit.