Tag: cavities

  • Kūpuna: Don’t Let Cavities Go Untreated!

    It’s easy to think that cavities are something only kids need to worry about. But the truth is, kūpuna can still get cavities, even if they’ve had healthy teeth their whole lives. In fact, aging can bring new dental challenges that make cavities more likely, such as dry mouth from medications or gum recession.

    If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infections, difficulty eating and even tooth loss. These issues can affect overall health, nutrition and daily comfort. Oral health is closely tied to overall well-being, especially in our later years.

    The good news? Cavities are preventable with a few simple daily habits. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque. Floss once a day to clean between the teeth where a brush can’t reach. And don’t forget to see your dentist regularly! Routine check-ups can help catch small problems before they become big ones.

    Taking care of your smile is an important part of staying healthy and living well. No matter your age, it’s never too late to give your teeth the care they deserve.

    HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
    Kahala Howser Pimentel, Wellness & Events Manager
    808-529-9391
    Kahala.Pimentel@HawaiiDentalService.com
    HawaiiDentalService.com

    It’s easy to think that cavities are something only kids need to worry about. But the truth is, kūpuna can still get cavities, even if they’ve had healthy teeth their whole lives. In fact, aging can bring new dental challenges that make cavities more likely, such as dry mouth from medications or gum recession. If…

  • Dental Caregiving

    Early in my dental career, I was the dental advisor for elder care facilities in Honolulu. The most challenging tasks were demonstrations on dental care. Some patients were extraordinarily combative!

    The combative patient’s teeth are typically not clean — minimal toothbrushing is done. It can be a struggle! Occasionally, though, you may be able to use a proxy-brush (a small Christmas tree-shaped brush) to clean between their teeth. Sometimes, using a thin, wet cloth or gauze around your finger works well in place of a toothbrush.

    Teeth that are very loose should be removed. They may choke and/or aspirate them.

    If the person can still go to the dentist and has cavities, the amount of difficulty and risk while conducting the restorative treatment must be weighed against the amount of discomfort the patient is in. A product we call “Silver Diamond” (silver diamine fluoride) is easy to use and works well in arresting decay. It does turn the decayed area black and may require more than one application.

    If the person you are caring for is cooperative, then do whatever you can to remove the plaque and debris. I admire all of you who are caregivers. You all have hearts of gold.

    DR. PAUL K. TANAKA, DDS
    4747 Kilauea Ave., Ste. 113, Honolulu, HI 96816
    808-737-6229 | office@paultanakadds.com
    www.paultanakadds.com

    Early in my dental career, I was the dental advisor for elder care facilities in Honolulu. The most challenging tasks were demonstrations on dental care. Some patients were extraordinarily combative!