4 Myths About Dental Care for the Elderly

Once you or a loved one reaches the age of 65, their overall healthcare needs can be far different. Elderly individuals can face a lot of changes within their bodies, and even their oral health needs can change. Even older adults can need general dental care in Long Beach, but several myths can get in the way of them seeking the proper treatment. Here is a look at some of the most common myths about dental care for the elderly.

Myth: Elderly patients with no teeth don’t need oral exams.

It is a good idea for elderly patients to get a checkup annually or semi-annually to screen for oral cancer and make necessary denture adjustments. While the patient may not have natural teeth, other oral health concerns can still be something to monitor.

Myth: Elderly individuals don’t need dental hygiene appointments.

Any individual should have their teeth cleaned twice annually by a Long Beach dentist, regardless of their age. In fact, elderly patients who are more prone to gum disease or disregarded home dental hygiene may need more appointments to protect their oral health.

Myth: Most elderly individuals have to get dentures.

While it is true that a lot of elderly patients have dentures, people these days are keeping their natural teeth for far longer thanks to dental care advancements. An elderly individual will only need dentures if there is an oral health concern that forces them to lose their teeth.

Myth: Elderly dental care poses a lot of unnecessary health risks.

On the contrary, elderly patients who don’t get adequate dental care may be more prone to health risks. Older patients can be more prone to gum disease, tooth decay, and even oral cancer. All necessary precautions are taken with geriatric patients to ensure treatments received do not pose unnecessary health concerns.

Find a Dentist in Long Beach for Elderly Patients

Dental care requirements may change with age, but oral health does need attention, no matter the age. If you are looking for a family dentist in Long Beach, CA that treats the elderly, reach out to us at the office of Dr. Andy Tang to schedule an appointment.