Did you know that 7 in 10 seniors have some form of gum disease? It’s one of the most common yet most overlooked health issues in older adults. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even serious health complications—increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and infections.
For seniors in long-term care, maintaining good oral hygiene can be difficult due to mobility issues, cognitive decline, and difficulty expressing pain. That’s why at Golden Care, we bring on-site oral healthcare directly to long-term care homes, providing gentle, proactive care without the burden of off-site dental visits.
Here’s how families can help prevent gum disease and protect their loved one’s smile.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Over time, this leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, if untreated, can progress to severe infection, tooth loss, and even jawbone damage.
Since 70% of seniors have some stage of gum disease, it’s crucial to recognize the factors that put older adults at risk:
🔹 Dry Mouth – Many medications reduce saliva production, increasing the risk of gum disease.
🔹 Cognitive Decline – Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s may forget to brush, allowing plaque to build up.
🔹 Poor-Fitting Dentures – Dentures that don’t fit well can cause irritation, leading to gum infections.
🔹 Chronic Illnesses – Conditions like diabetes and heart disease weaken the body’s ability to fight infections, including in the gums.
🔹 Difficulty Expressing Pain – Many seniors, particularly those with dementia, may not communicate discomfort, allowing gum disease to worsen unnoticed.
The good news? Gum disease is preventable with the right care.
Because seniors may not always verbalize discomfort, families should be on the lookout for:
🚨 Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
🚨 Persistent bad breath
🚨 Difficulty eating or chewing
🚨 Loose teeth or receding gums
🚨 Increased irritability (which may be due to oral pain)
Catching gum disease early prevents serious complications—and ensures your loved one stays comfortable and healthy.
✅ Encourage Daily Oral Hygiene – If your loved one needs assistance, ensure they’re brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
✅ Ensure Dentures Fit Properly – Poorly fitting dentures can cause gum irritation and infections. Regular check-ups help prevent issues.
✅ Promote Hydration – Drinking water helps combat dry mouth, a major risk factor for gum disease.
✅ Schedule Regular Professional Cleanings – Even with good daily care, plaque and tartar buildup require professional cleanings to prevent gum disease from progressing.
We understand that coordinating dental visits can be overwhelming for families. That’s why Golden Care provides on-site oral healthcare, bringing gentle, expert dental care directly to long-term care and retirement homes.
With our on-site visits, we:
✔️ Monitor gum health for early signs of disease
✔️ Provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar
✔️ Ensure dentures fit properly to prevent irritation
✔️ Offer fluoride treatments to strengthen teeth and gums
By prioritizing oral health, we help protect overall health, making sure your loved one stays comfortable and pain-free.
With 7 in 10 seniors affected by gum disease, regular oral care is essential for preventing pain, infections, and tooth loss.
📅 Schedule an appointment today and give your loved one the care they deserve—without the stress of off-site visits.
