We often cast aside good oral hygiene habits when we’re too tired to brush our teeth before bedtime, or think that skipping our dentist appointment won’t make much of a difference. Getting stuck in this mindset can affect your ability to eat well, and can determine whether you’re able to live independently as you age.
April is National Oral Health Month! The Canadian Dental Association offers some wonderful resources to help you understand why oral health is so important.
How to make dental care work for you
We need our teeth to eat solid foods. This statement may not be a revelation, but many of us take for granted our ability to chew tough foods like meat or crunchy vegetables. Without our natural teeth, or properly fitted dentures, we must eat purée foods and supplement our nutrition with vitamins.
Dental care is not one of the health services that Ontario’s health insurance (OHIP) covers unless the surgery is done in a hospital. Understandably, if you’re a senior on a fixed income, you may not have adequate private insurance to pay for routine visits to the dentist that can cost anywhere from $150.00 to $400.00, depending on the services you need.
Learn about how you can claim medical expenses on your tax return.
Which dental services can you claim on your Canadian tax return?
Prevention is the key
Did you know that dentures require as much care as your own teeth? Have you considered how your brushing habits affect the bacteria levels in your mouth?
There are some low-cost strategies for maintaining good oral hygiene, and taking a little bit of time each day to give your mouth the attention it deserves can improve your quality of life. It can also reduce your dental care costs through prevention.
If you take medication for hypertension or urinary incontinence, one of the side effects can be dry mouth. Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands don’t function properly. Saliva protects your tooth enamel, and a lack of this bodily fluid can lead to more cavities or tooth decay. Learn about how you can counteract dry mouth here.
Tips for a healthy mouth
- Brush your teeth after each meal
- Keep a small toiletry bag with travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush and floss in your bag or drawer for out-of-home dental hygiene
- Floss daily
- Visit the dentist regularly
- Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages and too many acidic foods
- Clean your dentures daily
- Learn about how medication you take affects you (e.g. dry mouth)
How can Milestone Health Services Halton help?
Our team at Milestone Health Services Halton can’t be your dentist, but we can help you keep a consistent personal hygiene regimen that includes taking good care of your teeth and oral health!
Part of maintaining a healthy mouth is making good food choices, which can be a challenge. If you have vision or mobility impairment, having someone to help you can help you achieve your goals for healthy living.
We offer home care in Halton that can include services to help you:
If you live in the Halton area, including Georgetown, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Mississauga North, and would like to discuss your individual needs whether or not you’re a senior, contact Milestone Health Services Halton for a complimentary in-home consultation at 1-888-509-9394 or 905-864-9020. You can also use our online contact form.