Advice

What can you do after a dementia diagnosis to help prevent later dental and oral problems?

How healthy our teeth and mouths are can have a big impact on how well we feel.

A dementia diagnosis does not mean you’re going to have sudden dental or oral problems. But they are common when people have more advanced dementia. 

Things you do now can help to reduce or prevent problems later.

Why keeping a healthy mouth matters

It can be difficult to keep up mouth care as dementia progresses. Having check-ups and treatments can also become complicated.

That means it’s easier to develop tooth decay, sensitive teeth and gum disease. These may cause discomfort or pain and can make it harder to eat properly.

Dry mouth is sometimes a side effect of medications, or it can be a part of getting older or not staying hydrated. It could make it harder to speak, chew or swallow, and may lead to fungal infections.

Dentures can also be a problem if they get lost, aren’t cleaned regularly or aren’t fitted properly.

Planning mouth care and check ups

Tell your dentist you’d like to plan to prevent later problems. Perhaps there’s a procedure you’re likely to need in coming years and which it would help to have sooner.

Have regular check-ups. Do this even if you take great care of your mouth.

Small problems can lead to more serious issues if not dealt with, so it’s worth picking them up quickly.

Dentists are more understanding nowadays about people’s fears or previous bad experiences. Talk to them about any worries that you have.

If you need an NHS dentist and they have a waiting list, get onto it now to have the least delay in getting seen.

Your tips for keeping a healthy mouth

Martin Robertson says, ‘Keep an eye on your gums, especially the pieces hidden by your lips.

‘I had a growth which I just left as it was painless. It had to be taken to be checked, and a quarter of my gum was removed just in case.

‘Luckily, it was benign. My dementia means I don’t feel pain in my gums, so I had a lucky escape.

‘I was informed that it was probably due to medicine side effects, however as I’m on a cocktail of tablets (21 a day), they could not be sure.’

Martyn Colebourne says, ‘Trying to get a dentist nowadays is difficult, and it’s very difficult for people to actually afford dental treatment. The government and NHS need to address this.

How many people are informed on diagnosis that teeth and oral health are an issue?

Tim Little says, ‘I’m lucky I’ve got an NHS dentist. Since I’ve had dementia, I think I’ve had six crowns, with root canal treatment.’

Small Clanger (forum name) says, ‘I spoke with our dentist about my husband’s condition. His teeth are in really good shape and we want to keep them that way, but I know his teeth cleaning is not so good these days.

‘She suggested mouthwash – keeping the gums healthy is imperative. He’s only swallowed the mouthwash once, but I do need to keep an eye just in case. I already have a water flosser, although he needs help with that and it won’t suit as he progresses.’