Sadly, there are large numbers of aging individuals who are dissuaded from getting the proper dental care they need and deserve as a result of many inconsiderate practices from their dentist. Surprisingly, lack of caring by the dental professional is the number one reason why the elderly do not make dental appointments. This was even higher than cost of services. There have been several studies that have dealt with how seniors feel about dental care. Other studies have looked at the older population’s oral hygiene habits.
Typically, many aging individuals simply wish to be heard, and respected enough to be told politely what they can expect from their treatment plan. If necessary dental care in the older population is an issue, this factor must be taken into consideration. Not only is this change necessary to facilitate acceptable dental care for older folk, it is essential to improve health care on the whole.
Horror stories about bad dental experiences are sadly all too common among many senior citizens. One such story is of a patient whose dentist told her to swallow the blood that was filling her mouth as the dentist pulled her tooth. The woman became terrified and would not allow the procedure to continue. Opting to put up with dentures, she then summoned her spouse to come get her.
Obviously, everyone (young and old) likes to have at least some level of comfort (or at least peace of mind) when visiting the dentist. When a dentist takes the time to communicate effectively with the elderly, studies show these patients come to trust them.
A thorough explanation of what procedure is going to be performed is very important to seniors. Sometimes it can feel to them that others are doing things behind their back, as they see doctors and dentists more regularly now who typically can’t or won’t provide them with reasonable information. Better information should be available to these patients, especially when it comes to an area as important as the mouth.
For the most part, it takes something as severe as a toothache to drive elderly folks to a dentist. This is a problem because by the time they feel the pain, the problem is far gone. As a matter of fact, out of the 64% of individuals suffering from a dental issue, only 8% of them will be symptomatic. The only way to correct this problem is through educating the dentists and seniors alike.
Studies of the relationship between dentist and patient applies to all patients, regardless of age. But these findings are pertinent to patients of any age, in any part of the world. Research clearly indicates that every single dental patient demands at least some level of respect from their “caregiver,” and are sadly NOT receiving it to their satisfaction.
Many patients tend to avoid the dental chair at all costs until their teeth hurt, which was demonstrated by the answers in this study. Convincing people to come into the office for their scheduled appointments depends on a good rapport between themselves and their dentist. Every person out there wants to know that their dentist is going to treat them with the utmost care.
The dental community as a whole must be willing to work on creating positive dental health messages. This education will require the coordination of not only dentists, but government as well. Perhaps by encouraging dentists to go to local schools and deliver this important information, or perhaps even by advertising campaigns, word could be spread.
The condition of your gums and teeth has an impact on the rest of your body. No one really likes seeing their physician either, but we go ahead and schedule our routine visits. It’s this same trudging forward that needs to happen with our dentists as well. The seniors who are focusing on living active healthy lives will certainly find this an important step.
It is possible to have a beautiful smile at any age and good health shows. Using a dentist that respects their patients and treats them politely is a key part of keeping all of your teeth. It is vital for all dentists to be very concerned that patients are comfortable and treated with sensitivity.
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