Tips For Caregivers of Seniors: Teeth Brushing
Teeth Brushing: A Healthy Mouth is Important for Everyone.
If we can keep the mouth healthy, we can help to save teeth, limit toothaches, and improve the ability to eat well. Brushing is an important part of a healthy mouth which includes care for natural teeth, dentures, and removable partial dentures. But many seniors are unable to brush their own teeth and the duty falls upon the caregiver and it can be a difficult task. Here are a few tips to help…
Tips for brushing an adult’s teeth:
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Think about how and where it may be easier to brush their teeth.
Tooth brushing does not need to be done standing at a bathroom sink; it can be done just as easily at a table with a towel, bowl, and cup of water. It’s a matter of finding what works best for both of you. Keep it simple and comfortable. Tell, show, do, and make tooth brushing part of a daily routine in a location that’s comfortable. -
Limit the use of toothpaste or do not use toothpaste.
Toothpaste may have a fresh minty appeal and the fluoride is important, but the most critical piece of tooth brushing is the mechanical removal of soft deposits such as plaque and food. Toothpaste may have an unfavorable taste for some adults and may bother those individuals with swallowing problems. If you do use toothpaste, choose one with fluoride which can help prevent decay and a pea size amount is all you will need. -
Select a toothbrush that has soft bristles and is easy to hold.
Consider using a child’s size toothbrush, a powered toothbrush (which has a large handle and may be easier to use), or making changes to a toothbrush depending on the ability to grasp the toothbrush handle. Changes include wrapping the toothbrush handle in a small face cloth, inserting it into Styrofoam tubing, or placing a bicycle handle over the handle of the toothbrush. Replace the toothbrush as soon as it appears worn. -
Caregiver positioning is also important.
If the person is in a wheelchair, it may be easier to stand behind them when helping with tooth brushing. If the brushing is not done at the bathroom sink, sitting knee to knee is comfortable and will increase the ability for the caregiver to see in the mouth. -
Brush gently along the gum line.
Check along the folds between the teeth and the cheeks where food remains may add up. You may want to swipe this area with a gloved finger or large swab. For a person with dentures or partials, remove them before brushing the teeth.
Whether you’re a family caregiver or a professional, you may encounter a bit of resistance initially. However, ensuring oral health is an essential part of caring for an elder’s overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to higher incidence of lung infections and can aggravate existing conditions like diabetes and heart conditions. A healthy mouth is important for everyone.
If you’re presently seeking a senior apartment, independent-living, assisted-living, or other continuing-care community for yourself or a senior loved one, don’t forget to visit alternativesforseniors.com to assist your search. Alternatives for Seniors is a print and online directory that specifically caters to the housing and personal care concerns of senior citizens and their families. You can also call our Senior Specialists at (888) WE-ASSIST (888-932-7747).