Falls & Oral Health: Protecting Smiles in Older Adults

Why Falls Are an Oral Health Crisis for Seniors

Falls represent more than just a risk to bones. They pose a serious threat to oral health and overall well-being in older adults. Each year, 1 in 4 adults over 65 experiences a fall, making falls the leading cause of injury in this age group. What many don't realize is that these incidents frequently result in dental emergencies, including broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue trauma that require immediate and often complex treatment.
(Diagnostics, 2023)

The Hidden Connection Between Falls and Dental Health

Falls Lead to Dental Emergencies

Research consistently shows that falls are one of the most common causes of dental trauma in older populations. When seniors fall, the face and mouth are particularly vulnerable to impact, resulting in:

• Fractured or knocked-out teeth requiring emergency dental intervention
• Jaw injuries that can affect speaking, eating, and breathing
• Soft tissue damage to the lips, gums, and tongue
• Damage to existing dental work, including crowns, bridges, and dentures

These injuries often demand complex restorative procedures, multiple dental visits, and significant recovery time.

The Nutrition-Frailty Connection

The relationship between oral health and physical resilience becomes even more critical after a fall. Studies reveal a statistically significant association between poor oral health and both nutritional disorders and frailty in older adults. When dental injuries from falls compromise a senior's ability to chew properly:

• Nutritional intake declines, leading to inadequate protein and calorie consumption
• Frailty worsens, reducing strength and increasing the risk of future falls
• Recovery slows, creating a dangerous cycle of declining health
• Quality of life diminishes due to pain, difficulty eating, and social withdrawal
  

(Wiley Open Access Collection, 2024)

Prevention Strategies

1. Implement Comprehensive Fall Prevention

Protecting oral health starts with preventing falls altogether:

• Exercise programs: Balance training, and strength exercises reduce fall risk by up to 24%
• Home modifications: Remove tripping hazards, improve lighting, install grab bars in bathrooms
• Medication review: Work with healthcare providers to minimize medications that cause dizziness or balance issues
• Vision checks: Regular eye exams ensure proper vision correction
• Footwear: Choose supportive, non-slip shoes and avoid walking in socks

(MSD Manual Professional Version, 2025)

2. Maintain Strong Oral Health

A healthy mouth is more resistant to trauma:

• Schedule dental checkups every six months
• Maintain daily brushing and flossing routines
• Prioritize calcium and vitamin D for bone and tooth health
• Fix loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures to prevent injury from minor impacts
  

How the Feno Smartbrush™ Helps
For older adults, consistent oral care can be challenging due to dexterity issues, fatigue, or limited mobility. The Feno Smartbrush™ simplifies the process with a personalized mouthpiece that cleans all surfaces in just 20 seconds. Its 18,000 precision bristles help remove plaque thoroughly and gently supporting gum strength, reducing inflammation, and promoting faster healing after minor trauma. By making daily care effortless, Feno helps seniors maintain oral resilience and confidence with every use.

3. Know When to Seek Emergency Care

After any fall involving facial or mouth impact, seek immediate dental evaluation if you experience:

• Chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth
• Jaw pain or difficulty opening/closing the mouth
• Persistent bleeding from the mouth or gums
• Loose teeth or changes in bite alignment
• Facial swelling or bruising

Time-sensitive tip: If a tooth is completely knocked out, place it in milk or saline and get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of successful reimplantation.

The Bottom Line: Falls Risk Extends Beyond Bones

Protecting seniors from falls means protecting their smiles. Falls can cause lasting damage to oral health, nutrition, and overall well-being. Combining fall prevention strategies with consistent, effective oral care helps maintain strength, comfort, and confidence as we age.

Innovative tools like the Feno Smartbrush™ make daily care simpler and more thorough helping older adults preserve gum health, prevent infection, and stay proactive in their oral wellness journey.

Take action today: Assess fall risks, schedule a dental checkup, and make small safety updates at home because prevention starts with stronger habits and smarter care.