Dental Upkeep Is Crucial For Those With Dementia

A person’s diagnosis of dementia is extremely upsetting for his (or her) family and friends. The caregiver(s) of someone with dementia knows this all too well. One of the worst parts is when those loved ones who knew the person before dementia set in see him unable to perform basic personal-hygiene tasks, such as taking care of his teeth. That’s why caregivers of people suffering from dementia do the best they can to help their charges maintain good dental habits. Not doing so can easily lead to damaged teeth that need attention from an endodontist.

At the office of Concho Valley Endodontics, our expert staff is skilled in treating patients with dementia. We provide them with respect and dignity while helping to maintain their oral health.

Unfortunately, a demented person’s dental needs are frequently and unintentionally discounted for reasons that are quite plausible. The person’s absentmindedness leads to inadvertent dental neglect. He (or she) can forget the simple act of his brushing his teeth. Meanwhile, his caregivers and family might lose touch with his dental professional because they’re focused on his other needs. 

During the initial stages of dementia, honing in on brushing, flossing and getting checkups regularly can prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on, when the patient may be less able to tolerate them.

As the disease advances, continuing an oral health regime may turn into more of a challenge. His caregivers should do their best to ensure that he gets regular dental care for as long as possible. The visits will help stave off tooth decay, gum issues and other such problems that could end up becoming painful and getting infected. It’s also important to give all of his dental providers a list of all of the patient’s medications in case any of them have side effects that include dry mouth or other oral health problems. 

Concho Valley Endodontics is dedicated to providing superior service and compassionate endodontic care for patients of all ages. For more information about our office and our many services, please call us today.