Mind Your Mouth Ad Campaign to Educate Seniors About Dry Mouth
What if you couldn’t talk? Couldn’t eat? Couldn’t swallow? One in three seniors may develop these symptoms of dry mouth. If untreated, dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease in the short term, and then heart disease and diabetes later.
The Washington Dental Service Foundation wants to raise awareness among young seniors about the consequences of dry mouth and preventative measures.
“If you’re not producing enough saliva to neutralize acids, kill fungi and bacteria, and help wash away food, you’re more likely to develop infections that can reduce your body’s ability to fight off other infections and diseases,” says Dr. David Branch, a WDSF trustee. “Maintaining good oral health is one of the smartest things you can do.”
The WDSF has partnered with the AARP to educate its members about prevention and treatment of dry mouth. Through meetings, ads, and “tele-town halls,” they hope to reach a wide audience of older adults.
Medications are the most common cause of dry mouth. Over 400 prescription and over the counter drugs have dry mouth as a side effect. The WDSF is attempting to minimize the prescription of these drugs in favor of substitutes without dry mouth.
If you have any questions about this post or need help finding senior-care options for a loved one, call 1-866-483-4896 to speak with a care advisor in your area.
I had no idea my medications could cause such problems in my mouth. I’m going to talk to my doctor at my next visit.