Word of Mouth

Time ticks on, and with each flip of the calendar, our bodies need more to stay healthy. Especially as your employees head into their 50s and 60s.
 

Oral health challenges that come with age

Oral disease is common among U.S. adults. 50% in the age range of 45–64 have gum disease. When you look at 65+, about 70% have gum disease, and 1 in 5 live with untreated cavities.

Dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay, is another common condition in older adults. However, it is not part of the aging process itself. It’s likely due to side effects of certain medications and dehydration.

Poor oral health is more than what’s going on in the mouth. It’s linked to conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s. The significance of all three of these conditions only increases with age. And so does the significance of a good oral health routine.
 

Maintain a healthy oral care routine

Contrary to common belief, tooth loss isn't a result of the aging process. It's primarily the result of preventable oral disease. When you take care of your teeth throughout your life, you can help them last a lifetime.

Here are some tips to pass on to your older employees:

• Brush twice a day for 2 minutes.
• Floss daily and try interdental brushes or a water flosser.
• Drink water to stay hydrated and fight dry mouth.
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to help control bacteria and plaque.
• Visit the dentist twice a year.
• Talk to both the dentist and primary care provider about the connection between oral health and overall health.
   

Education is just as important

What’s equally important as the tips above is education on oral health and its connection to overall health.

That’s why Delta Dental commissioned a survey to explore how older Americans feel about the level of care they’ve given to their teeth; their understanding of oral health’s importance; barriers to oral care and the outcomes of not taking better care of their teeth.

The Senior Oral Health Report found that 80% of older adults do not visit the dentist as often as recommended, which means they’re missing out on valuable care and information on how their mouth affects the rest of their body.

What over half of older adults in the U.S. are missing out on:

• 64% of older Americans don’t know their dentist can tell if they might have cancer via oral exams.
• 61% don’t know gum swelling can be linked to diabetes, heart disease and increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• 55% of older adults never discuss their overall health or share current medications with their dentist.
• 2 in 3 haven’t mentioned oral health’s connection to their overall health with their primary care physician.
   

Delta Dental is committed to providing older adults with consistent, quality access to oral health care, improving education and driving lasting policy changes to address systemic issues.
 

Help keep your employees healthy

Educate them early. Remind your employees of the importance of routine dental visits for long-term oral and overall health benefits.

Start by helping them find an in-network dentist near them.