
Oral Health and Older Adults
- Oral health has been called "a window into your overall health" because it can impact your general health and disease (Mayo Clinic, 2019).
- It's important to maintain the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums at any age, but particularly when you are older.
- Chronic health conditions can affect oral health, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system (CDC, 2020).
- Since Medicare does not cover routine dental care most older adults do not have dental insurance (CDC, 2019).
- Many older adults are unable to access basic preventive dental care and treatment to keep their teeth and mouths healthy (Pew Research Trust, 2016).
- Caregivers and older adults can find the resources and information they need to connect with appropriate oral health supports and services.
We’re here to help. Please let us know if you have a question or feedback by emailing info@seniornavigator.org. Be sure to include your city, county, or zip code so we can better meet your needs.

Key Articles
- Oral Health for Older Adults: Quick Tips
- Keeping Teeth Healthy for Longer
- Diabetes & Oral Health
- Oral Cancer
- Taking Care of Your Teeth and Mouth
- Where can I find low-cost dental care?
- When should you go to the dentist during COVID-19's spread?

Tip Sheets & Tools
- Brush and Floss Card (English and Spanish)
- Older Adults and Oral Health (English and Spanish)
- Dental Care for the Elderly (VDH)
- Dry Mouth & Older Adults
- DIABETES AND YOU: Healthy Teeth Matter
- Oral Health Tips and Caregiver Fact Sheets

Stay Connected
- Your Dental Health at MouthHealthy (ADA)
- Oral Health for Older Americans (CDC)
- Oral Health & Older Adults (NIDCR)
- AgingCare Oral Health Dental Care Articles
Visit the AgingCare Caregiver Forum to interact with other caregivers!

Your Local Programs
- Virginia Area Agencies on Aging
- Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics
- Virginia Department of Health - Dental Directory
- Virginia Health Care Foundation
- Virginia Health Catalyst
- Free Medical and Dental Clinics Open During COVID-19
►► Use SEARCH BOX at top of page to find local services