Some dentists can be unknowingly insensitive. As a result, many seniors avoid regular dental appointments because of this. A discouraging statistic (quite frankly mind-blowing) is the fact that a current poll was taken revealing that the NUMBER ONE reason elderly folk will not go to the dentist is NOT the price - it's the attitude of their "caregiver!" Studies have been conducted about this older part of the population and their dental habits and attitudes.
Older people primarily want a dentist who listens to them and explains what is going on. If necessary dental care in the older population is an issue, this factor must be taken into consideration. If dentists and the dentist industry as a whole change the way they work with their older patients, they will be able to help these seniors get the dental care that they need.
You'd be surprised at the stories some older patients can tell about their dental visits. For instance, during a visit to have teeth extracted, an older lady was not allowed by her dentist to spit out blood that was pooling inside her mouth. She became so scared, she refused and left the office. As a result she had to get dentures.
Obviously, everyone (young and old) likes to have at least some level of comfort (or at least peace of mind) when visiting the dentist. Since studies have proven that seniors tend to trust dentist who clearly explain what is going on, communication is key to providing proper dental services to the elderly.
Senior citizens, like most people, want to know what's happening inside of their mouth. Seniors especially spend much time visiting doctors, and are often under the impression that these doctors take actions without informing them. The mouth is a very intimate area, and the need to be informed is even greater when dental care is being done.
Most seniors visit the dentist only when they are in pain. Even though 64% of them are having some sort of issue with their dental health, only 8% will have a corresponding toothache. Proper education can be used to address this issue.
Although there is a lot of research on the elderly and their dental habits, there are scores of studies on the attitudes and habits of dentists toward to their patients which isn't limited to older patients. The findings can be used to help improve the treatment of patients of all ages and living in all areas of the world. Many individuals report that the attitude of the attending dentist contributes more to the patient's sense of well being than any other factor.
The significant fact revealed by surveys is that unless there is tooth-related pain which forces them to go, many people will simply neglect their oral health. Obviously, much "doctoring" is needed to mend this broken doctor / patient partnership before routine, preventative visits can resume. Additionally, we must educate and train dentists on the importance and significance of applying TLC to all patients. They must be reminded that each patient is fearful and anxious. Courtesy and concern go a long way toward alleviating that.
Communities can work together to effectively create a positive dental health message. Governments and local businessman, no one is immune to responsibility to help spread a positive message regarding dental care. Advertising can be used to address dental health, as well as having dentists visit local schools to talk to the students.
After all, every part of our body's healthy functioning is impacted by dental health. When taking care of our mouths, we should make our checkups as routine as those we get from our primary care doctors. Targeting older individuals who desire an active lifestyle could begin to breech the mindset of avoiding the dentist.
Witnessing an elderly lady happily showing off a great smile can really be a heartwarming sight. Using a dentist that respects their patients and treats them politely is a key part of keeping all of your teeth. Dentists need to understand that when they don't do all they should to make you comfortable and treat you with respect they could cause you not to take all of the steps necessary to maintaining a healthy mouth.
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