Danger of Tooth Extraction in Elderly Adults
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As people age, they become more prone to oral complications and are at higher risk of issues during oral surgery due to chronic health conditions. These conditions can worsen dental problems and slow healing after procedures like tooth extractions. Extractions are often necessary due to decay, trauma, or impaction. There may be understandable anxiety about tooth extractions for older adults. In this post, we’ll review the risks of tooth extraction in elderly.
Is It Safe for Older Adults to Get a Tooth Extraction?
Despite the title of this post, tooth extractions are generally safe for older adults, but certain factors must be considered beforehand. The patient’s medical history should be carefully reviewed and discussed with the dentist to identify any potential risks. Additionally, the patient’s age can affect their response to the procedure, so the dentist must take this into account when planning the treatment.
Danger of Tooth Extraction in Elderly Adults
For an elderly tooth extraction, death is a possibility but this worry can be alleviated with proper dental care. It’s best to speak with the dentist about these concerns. Some potential dangers of tooth extraction in older adults include:
- Tooth extraction with dementia. Performing extractions on dementia patients poses unique risks, especially when using full-mouth numbing techniques. These patients may not realize they are numb, potentially leading to self-injury, such as biting their lip or cheek, and other complications. By focusing on localized numbing for a single tooth, the procedure can be safer, more comfortable, and less traumatic for the patient.
- Risk of complications from anesthesia. Anesthesia carries inherent risks, particularly for older individuals. Clear communication about these risks with the patient is essential before proceeding with the procedure.
- Risk of bleeding. Elderly patients are more susceptible to excessive bleeding after tooth extractions, making careful monitoring and preparation essential.
- Risk of infection. Older adults are at higher risk of infection due to weakened immunity. Ensuring the extraction area is clean and sterile is crucial to prevent unnecessary complications.
Aftercare for Tooth Extraction
Following a tooth extraction, it is vital to ensure proper after care is maintained. Your dentist or oral surgeon should provide some instructions on care afterward but it never hurts to provide yourself with ways to care for yourself. Older adults and caregivers can perform the following steps to ensure optimal health following an extraction.
- Rinse with warm salt water. Encourage patients to rinse several times a day to reduce pain and swelling, promote healing, and keep the wound clean.
- Use an antibacterial rinse or gel. Provide a rinse or gel to lower the risk of infection.
- Avoid irritants. Advise patients to avoid smoking, hot beverages, alcohol, and crunchy or spicy foods, as these can irritate the extraction site.
- Brush gently. Recommend using a soft toothbrush and avoiding the extraction site until the wound has healed.
- Take prescribed pain relief. Ensure patients take pain medications as directed and monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or increased swelling.
- Focus on soft, nutritious foods. Suggest high-protein and nutrient-rich soft foods to support proper nutrition during healing.
- Follow aftercare instructions. Remind patients to adhere to their dentist’s aftercare guidelines and maintain regular dental appointments.
To learn about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.
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Date: 2025-01-21
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