This article helps you support older parents to look after their teeth.

Why it matters

• Broken or lost teeth cause pain and make eating and talking harder.
• They can make people feel less confident and less social.
• Looking after teeth helps a person keep their pride and dignity.
• In Australia, people over 75 have on average 24 out of 28 teeth decayed, missing or filled.
• Preventing problems costs less than fixing them.

Find out what they have

Do they have their own teeth, full or partial dentures, implants, bridges or a mix?

Why care must change with age

• Dry mouth from age and medicines. This is a huge problem. Plaque becomes sticky and teeth lose their natural protection.
• Old dental work gets older and more complex.
• Hands do not work as well.
• Diet changes.

How you can help

• Encourage visits to a dentist who focuses on prevention.
• Change to better toothpastes that are less drying.
• Add dry mouth gels or sprays.
• Less sugar. Offer sugar-free or xylitol lollies instead.
• Try easy-grip toothbrushes and easier ways to clean between teeth.
• If they live in a care home, check they have a mouth care plan and the right products.
• Start early if you can, and be patient with change.