As a Caregiver, you may have to assist or even take a hands-on approach to dental care. It’s important to point out that when caring for someone’s overall health, their dental health is often just as critical. Preventing infections, dental pain, and other oral complications can help to improve or maintain a person’s quality of life.
Thoroughly removing plaque and germs from all surfaces of the teeth promotes gum health and helps prevent cavities.
5 Tips for oral care
- For those with their natural teeth, it is ideal to brush twice daily (or at least once a day) using a soft bristled toothbrush. If a person is unable to brush on his or her own, a power toothbrush may be a helpful tool in many cases – though it will likely take some practice when you start using it on someone else! If the person is able to spit after brushing,
- Fluoride toothpaste is a great choice. For individuals with swallowing problems (or those unable to spit), brushing with water is also an option.
- Flossing (or using other interdental tools) to clean between the teeth every day cleans where a toothbrush can’t reach and is extremely important in preventing decay.
- Using a disposable dental mirror* and penlight, examine soft tissues of the mouth for sores red or white spots on the gums, cheek, palate, and tongue. Red or white areas in the mouth that do not clear up should be seen referred to your dentist for evaluation.
- Examine also for broken teeth and missing fillings.
6 tips for full and partial dentures
- Dentures and partials need to be cleaned every day.
- Removed overnight and soaked in a denture soak.
- They should be brushed with a soft bristled brush that is designed for dentures.
- Don’t use regular toothpaste to clean dentures- it is likely too abrasive and may cause damage. You can use mild dishwashing liquid to clean them if commercial cleaners are not available.
- When you are cleaning dentures, do so over a towel. This can prevent breakage if they drop in the sink or onto the floor.
- If dentures do not fit well, be sure to visit your dentist. Ill-fitting dentures can cause sores and can lead a person to stop eating from discomfort.
- Over the counter moisturizing products are available
- Fluoride rinses of concentrated prescription strength fluoride toothpaste prevent cavities when used consistently.
- Regular dental examinations can help to identify problems before they cause unnecessary pain.
- In addition, professional cleanings are necessary to maintain natural teeth and avoid gum infections or gum disease.
4 Additional tips and recommendations
We all need saliva to moisten and cleanse our mouths, and to digest food. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions, as a side effect of many medications, or from certain medical treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation treatments for cancer). Dry mouth can cause discomfort and lead to a dramatic increase in dental decay over a short time.
A great resource for Caregivers, “Dental Care Every Day: A Caregiver’s Guide” can be found online on the website for the National Institute of Health at:
- Over the counter moisturizing products are available
- Fluoride rinses of concentrated prescription strength fluoride toothpaste prevent cavities when used consistently.
- Regular dental examinations can help to identify problems before they cause unnecessary pain.
- In addition, professional cleanings are necessary to maintain natural teeth and avoid gum infections or gum disease.
A great resource for Caregivers, “Dental Care Every Day: A Caregiver’s Guide” can be found online on the website for the National Institute of Health at:
Preventive measures go a long way when it comes to dental health, leading to better overall health.
*Disposable mouth mirrors can be found at Amazon if you follow this link https://goo.gl/xhUJBh
Dr Neal can advise you in your oral health caregiving. at Crystal Lake Dental Associates
Dr Neal can advise you in your oral health caregiving. at Crystal Lake Dental Associates
815 459 2202
Your comments are welcome
Phillip C. Neal DDS
Crystal Lake Dental Associates
280 B Memorial Court
Thanks for sharing the very informative information for caregivers for hands-on approach to dental care. This will be very helpful with the tips you shared. Have a wonderful rest of your week.
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