Caring for the Golden Years: Geriatric Dentistry Services at Chitra Dental Clinic

Posted May 31, 2024 by Dr. Mini Jose

It is often said that the mouth mirrors the body’s overall health. Maintaining oral hygiene is as crucial as keeping any other part of our body healthy, especially as we age. Good oral health is not just about a beautiful smile; it's about overall well-being. As we get older, our bodies undergo various changes, and our oral health needs become more complex. For geriatric patients, the importance of regular dental care cannot be overstated. Issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth, and oral cancer are more prevalent in older adults, and these conditions can affect eating, speaking, and social interactions, further influencing general health and happiness. Therefore, it is vital to integrate dental care into the broader spectrum of health care for older people.

At Chitra MultiSpeciality Dental Clinic, we understand that each senior patient is unique, with their own set of health conditions and challenges. We are deeply committed to offering specialised dental care tailored to these unique needs. Our comprehensive approach focuses on treating existing dental issues and emphasises preventive care and education to maintain optimal oral health. By doing so, we aim to enhance the overall well-being of our elderly patients, ensuring they enjoy a high quality of life well into their golden years. Through this blog, let’s understand more about geriatric care and how Chitra Dental Clinic does it the right way.

Tailored Dental Care for the Elderly

The first and foremost aspect of any healthcare, let alone dental care, is understanding the patient. Geriatric care is a challenging task as each patient is different. Their health conditions are unique, the ailments and diseases they battle each day are different and more importantly, how each patient handles the pain and struggle is different.

We have seen patients struggle to open their mouths when they visit for their appointments. We have also witnessed cases where the dentures have not been removed for months together. We have also seen instances where the caretaker(s) of the patients takes little or no effort to keep the patient’s teeth healthy. Chitra Dental Clinic, which provides specialised geriatric care, is the much-needed solace to all these woes. We look at each aspect with a much closer lens.

Home Visits for Comfortable Care

For elderly patients who face mobility issues or other health constraints, Chitra Dental Clinic offers home visits. Our skilled dental professionals bring the clinic to your doorstep, ensuring that patients receive the necessary dental care without the stress and discomfort of travelling.

Caregiver Education and Support

Taking care of an elderly patient's oral health often involves the help of a caregiver. We provide proper training and education to caregivers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain the patient’s dental hygiene. This includes instructions on effective brushing, flossing techniques, and using specialised dental tools.

Managing Fungal Infections

Elderly patients are more susceptible to oral fungal infections, such as candidiasis. Our team of dentists at Chitra Dental Clinic is experienced in diagnosing and treating these infections. We emphasise the importance of regular oral hygiene and provide specific treatments to manage and prevent fungal issues.

Addressing Sharp Teeth Issues

As teeth wear down with age, they can become sharp and cause discomfort or injury. Our dentists at Chitra Dental Clinic are adept at smoothing out sharp edges and providing solutions that prevent further damage, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free oral environment for our patients.

Denture Care and Maintenance

Dentures are an everyday necessity for many elderly patients. We offer comprehensive denture services, from fitting and adjustments to repairs and cleanings. We aim to ensure dentures fit comfortably and function effectively, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

Personalised Dental Kits

Understanding that geriatric dental care requires specialised tools, Chitra Dental Clinic provides personalised dental kits. These kits include interdental cleaning devices such as a water flosser, medicated toothpaste, and mouthwash, ensuring that patients have everything they need for effective daily oral care.

Holistic Approach with Complete Medical History

Many elderly patients have complex medical histories, including conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Before initiating any treatment, our team conducts a comprehensive review of each patient’s medical background. This involves studying the available medical records and, if necessary, reaching out to the patient’s regular hospital or GP [General Practitioner] for additional information. This meticulous approach ensures that our dental procedures are safe and appropriate for each individual's health, reflecting our commitment to patient safety.

For instance, diabetic patients are more prone to gum diseases and may experience delayed healing as well. Their blood sugar levels are checked for stability, and all dental treatments are done considering all risks involved. The same applies to cardiac patients, where we work towards minimising the patient’s stress levels. The blood pressure levels are regularly monitored before and during procedures, and we check with the patient’s cardiologist as well to ensure that dental treatments are safe and well-coordinated.

Conclusion

At Chitra MultiSpeciality Dental Clinic, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care for our elderly patients. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of their oral health is addressed with the utmost care and professionalism. Whether through home visits, caregiver education, or personalised treatment plans, we strive to make dental care accessible, comfortable, and effective for seniors in Trivandrum. Your golden years deserve nothing but the best, and at Chitra Dental Clinic, we are here to help you smile brightly every day.