Should Seniors Drink Fluoridated Tap Water?
As seniors age, they are more likely to experience oral care problems. If your elderly loved one is concerned about maintaining healthy teeth, he or she may be wondering if drinking fluoridated tap water is a good choice. To help you and your loved one decide if he or she should drink fluoridated water, the aged care experts at Home Care Assistance in North Coast discuss four benefits of drinking from the tap.
1. Slows Tooth Decay
Plaque that builds up on teeth naturally produces acids that break down the tooth enamel, leaving teeth open to bacteria that cause decay. Fluoride helps reverse this process and repair the enamel on your loved one’s teeth. As seniors frequently experience diminished saliva production and loss of dexterity, brushing and flossing can be difficult, which may lead to an increased risk for developing tooth decay. Drinking fluoridated water is a simple way to get fluoride to the teeth and to help prevent or slow tooth decay.
2. Protects Real Teeth
Recent studies have shown that adults over the age of 50 who drink fluoridated water were more likely to keep their teeth, rather than get dentures or implants. If your loved one can maintain a healthy and strong set of teeth, he or she can avoid getting dentures and the daily hassle of cleaning and inserting them. As an added benefit, maintaining strong and healthy teeth can help your loved one feel confident about his or her smile.
3. Saves Money
Bottled water is more expensive than tap and does not typically contain fluoride. While some seniors argue that tap water tastes different, using the fluoridated water may be worth adjusting to as it can help him or her save money on both expensive bottled water and trips to the dentist. If your elderly loved one prefers chilled water, simply ask your loved one’s hourly or 24-hour caregiver in North Coast to fill a pitcher of tap water and place it in the fridge for at least half an hour before serving.
4. Reduces Chance of Dental Infection
In some cases, cavities can lead to infections of the mouth, jaw, or face, and may cause pain or discomfort. As drinking fluoridated water can reduce the likelihood of cavities, tap water may prevent dental infections in the long run. Plus, since almost all tap water is fluoridated, it’s easy to promote your loved one’s dental health.
If you’re looking for ways to help promote your loved one’s health and wellness, turn to Home Care Assistance. We offer high-calibre in-home care for a variety of senior physical and cognitive needs, helping ensure that your loved one is both safe and comfortable in his or her own home. To learn more about how our aged care services, including Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s care in North Coast, can benefit your elderly loved one, reach out to a Care Manager a (02) 6646 3527 and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation.