Senior Dental Care & Mobile Dentistry

Aging is a natural process, and maintaining oral health becomes increasingly important over time. As we grow older, our muscles, bones, and tissues change, and our risk for dental conditions increases. In Motion Dentists provides mobile dental care to seniors throughout Los Angeles County and Orange County, ensuring accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive dental services at home or in care facilities.

Our Approach to Senior Dental Care

We specialize in serving elderly patients, including those in:

• Board and Care Homes
• Memory Care and Skilled Nursing Facilities
• Senior Living and Independent Living Communities
• Private Homes

Our mobile dentists—Dr. Wade Banner, Dr. Marc Bernardo, and Dr. Jaycee Lim—deliver patient-centered care and communicate with family members or caregivers as requested. We also work with insurance and financing providers to make our services affordable.

Why Seniors Need Specialized Care

Elderly patients are more susceptible to oral health problems, even if they wear dentures. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and pneumonia. Mobile dental care removes the barrier of transportation and allows seniors to receive complete dental services in a comfortable and familiar environment.

Common Age-Related Dental Issues

• Uneven Jawbone: Loss of teeth can alter jawbone structure, affecting chewing ability.
• Tooth Loss: Often caused by advanced gum disease, cavities, or bone loss.
• Gum Disease: Exacerbated by plaque buildup, ill-fitting dental work, or underlying health conditions.
• Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva flow from medications or radiation therapy can lead to decay.
• Root Decay: Exposed roots are vulnerable to cavities, often worsened by food pocketing.
• Food Pocketing: Difficulty swallowing or incomplete cleaning can accelerate decay, especially in seniors with dry mouth.

Oral Cancer Awareness

Approximately 35,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with an average patient age of 62. Early stages are often painless, so regular exams are essential. Watch for persistent sores, color changes, or patches in the mouth, and consult a dentist if symptoms last more than two weeks.

Tools and Techniques for Senior Care

We use specialized equipment to ensure safe, comfortable treatment for seniors, similar to the tools we use for special needs patients. This approach allows efficient, high-quality care in homes and facilities.

Daily Oral Hygiene Tips for Seniors

Maintaining oral health at home is vital:

• Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once daily or use a WaterPik if flossing is difficult
• Rinse with an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash
• Consume a balanced diet with dairy and high-fiber foods
• Attend regular dental checkups for cleaning and exams