Senior Citizen Dentistry in Clear Lake, TX
As you or your family member ages, your oral health needs change. The priorities you had in the past may not be anywhere close to what your goals are for today. For example, if you have a loved one who is in a nursing home and unable to eat because of their teeth—and is losing too much weight—it’s important for you to find a senior dentistry office to help them regain oral function again.
Clear Lake Dentist for Seniors with Dementia
When your loved one is easily confused or has trouble caring for themselves because of dementia, dental struggles compound even more than before. Perhaps dentures go uncared for, teeth go unbrushed, or oral infections become so severe that it’s putting their health at risk.
Dr. Rosas is passionate about meeting our patients where they’re at in their life, and tailoring their care to fit the unique concerns of their loved ones or caregivers. By modifying their care plan, we help restore a sense of peace for seniors throughout Clear Lake, Webster, Seabrook, and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Types of Dental Treatments for Seniors
Dental Cleanings—Preventative dental care—including cleanings and exams—stops common oral diseases from getting worse or spreading. Something as simple as a professional cleaning every six months can stop the spread of tartar into the bone, or plaque from triggering tooth loss (or spreading into your senior’s bloodstream.) A healthy smile is a reflection of overall wellness. If there is active bleeding or swelling, it places seniors at a higher risk of pneumonia, stroke, heart attack, and more.
Dentures and Partials—Removable prosthetics like dentures, partials, and flippers (like a temporary for bridges or partials) are a fast, affordable way to help seniors replace their missing teeth. As a Clear Lake dentist experienced in geriatric dentistry, Dr. Rosas helps families design denture options that are comfortable while also allowing proper chewing and speech patterns during this delicate stage of life. There are even options to pair dentures with dental implants, when appropriate. The important thing is that all of our senior citizen dental work is patient-driven and family-focused, allowing you to rest assured the end result is what’s best for your situation.
Tooth Extractions—When a tooth is broken, abscess, or severely decayed to the point it’s non-restorable, it may make it impossible to chew on that side of your mouth. Not to mention cause serious pain and discomfort. Sometimes it’s best to extract teeth, especially in seniors who have different priorities than someone much younger. Although we typically try to retain natural teeth as long as we can, sometimes it’s best to eliminate the source of infection simply for the purpose of pain relief.
Denture Repair and Relines—If your loved one has a denture that rubs or is creating sore spots, it may be necessary to have it updated. They may complain of their mouth hurting, not want to wear their denture, or not be eating as much as they normally do. Never repair dentures or partials with DIY kits, as glues or other products can permanently damage the “plate”, making it impossible to wear. A reline, repair, or replacement can make a world of difference.
Dental Fillings, Crowns—For broken or decaying teeth, it’s important that we address those structural issues before they get any worse. Otherwise, cavities can spread into adjacent teeth, or broken teeth may break apart even further (requiring root canal treatment or extractions.) By preserving the teeth that seniors still have, we can prolong their oral function and minimize additional treatments in the future. Placing fillings or crowns are both effective ways to maintain tooth structure for as long as possible.
Affordable Geriatric Dental Care
We understand that the costs associated with your loved one’s health are a major factor when it comes to accessible care. That’s why our Clear Lake dentist provides all appropriate options and discusses them with you ahead of time, including the fees involved. We will find something that works for your family, including financing plans when appropriate.
Senior Dental Care in Spring Lake
Dr. Rosas understands the patience and unique approach to care required for older members of your family. If you have a loved one who is in their golden years and is struggling with their health because of missing teeth, we encourage you to call our Clear Lake dentist. We serve geriatric patients throughout the League City, Friendswood, Kemah, and NASA communities.
Contact us today to reserve an appointment. New patients are always welcome.