Dental care for seniors: keeping your mouth healthy as you age
Teeth can last a lifetime with the right care. Ageing, medications and health changes bring new things to watch.
Older adults face a higher risk of dry mouth, decay on exposed roots, gum disease and oral cancer. Regular checkups, fluoride toothpaste, daily cleaning between teeth and good denture care help. Bring an up-to-date medication list to every visit. Many seniors without dental insurance may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
Common concerns after 65
- Dry mouth: many common medications reduce saliva, which normally protects teeth
- Root decay: when gums recede, the softer root surface is exposed and decays more easily
- Gum disease: often without pain, and linked with conditions such as diabetes
- Worn or broken teeth and older fillings that need repair
- Oral cancer: the risk increases with age, tobacco and alcohol
- Sore spots and infections under dentures
Daily care that helps
Watch for warning signs and call your dentist if you notice them: a sore that doesn't heal within two weeks, a white or red patch, bleeding gums, a loose tooth, or a denture that suddenly fits differently.
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste; ask about a higher-fluoride toothpaste if you get root cavities
- Clean between teeth daily; interdental brushes or a water flosser can be easier than floss
- Try a power toothbrush or a brush with a thicker handle if gripping is hard
- Sip water often, chew sugar-free gum and limit sugary drinks if your mouth is dry
- Remove dentures at night, brush them daily and soak them in a denture cleaner
- Brush your gums and tongue too, even if you wear full dentures
What to bring to your dental visit
Bring a current list of your medications, including blood thinners, bone medications such as bisphosphonates, and any supplements. Mention recent surgeries, joint replacements or heart conditions. These details can change how the dentist plans treatment.
Dentures should be checked at your regular visits. As the gums and bone change, dentures can loosen and may need relining or adjusting. A loose denture can cause sores and make eating harder.
Tips for caregivers
If you help someone with daily care, stand behind or beside them, support their head, and use a small soft brush. A mouth that hurts can show up as a change in eating, mood or behaviour, especially in people with dementia.
Our office has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, seating and washroom. Let us know when booking if extra time or help is needed.
Coverage for seniors
Many retirees lose workplace dental benefits. The Canadian Dental Care Plan may help if you have no access to dental insurance, have filed your taxes, and have an adjusted family net income under $90,000. You apply through the Government of Canada. We accept CDCP; note that complete upper and lower dentures are not provided under CDCP at our office.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need checkups if I have full dentures?
Yes. The dentist checks the fit of your dentures, the health of your gums and the soft tissues of your mouth, including an oral cancer screening.
Why is my mouth always dry?
Medications are the most common cause. Tell your dentist and doctor. Saliva substitutes, more water and sugar-free lozenges can help, and extra fluoride protects your teeth.
Is it too late to get an implant?
Age alone doesn't rule out implants. Bone, general health and medications matter more. Implant surgery is arranged with a specialist, and we make and fit the crown or denture.
Can I bring a family member to my appointment?
Yes. Having someone with you can help with questions, directions and remembering instructions.
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Trusted health information
General information only; not a substitute for an exam. Reviewed by Dr. Sayeh Maralani, DDS, general dentist. Last updated 2026-11-03.
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