Oral Healthcare Tips for Special Needs

By: Dr. Heather Hradek

While oral health care is important and necessary for everyone, not everyone can fulfill this important part of healthcare on their own. Those that are differently-abled, elderly, and/or handicapped may not be able to physically or mentally comply with the simple hygiene rules that others may easily follow through with, but it’s still important for them to brush twice daily too and have regular professional dental visits. Here’s a few tips for those who lovingly care for those who can’t care for themselves.

Everyone has different needs, but those who are differently-abled still need a daily routine for oral health care… it may just need to be adapted to best suit them. Some that are cognitively-delayed can perform the routine with encouragement or once shown what to do, while others are physically unable to complete it. For those who need encouragement, the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research suggests trying a “tell-show-do” approach: Tell the person how you’ll help them brush and what it might feel like. Show how you will do each step before you begin. Do the steps in the same way you just explained.

For those with difficulty with manual dexterity or holding and using a regular toothbrush, consider a power toothbrush to let the brush do the work but still provide some independence. Traditional floss may be challenging for some, but a pre-threaded floss holder, water flosser, or interdental brushes may be a suitable alternative approach to make it easier to clean between teeth. If your loved one has difficulty swallowing or with rinsing, skip the toothpaste, but don’t skip brushing completely. Even brushing with just a toothbrush moistened with water is going to better than no brushing at all.

Make your situation work for you. Oral hygiene doesn’t have to be completed in the bathroom if it is difficult to get them there. Set up where you are comfortable and have everything you need within reach: a toothbrush, toothpaste, a flosser, a glass of water, a bowl to spit, and perhaps a towel are all you need to do a thorough job. Have your loved one sit up or raise the head of the bed to avoid choking. Make sure you wash your hands and consider disposable gloves before you begin. After brushing and flossing, if they are able to swish and spit, consider a fluoride mouthrinse to further help prevent decay.

Even people who are missing teeth and wear full or partial dentures are still in need of daily oral health care. These prostheses need to be removed daily and cleaned with a soft brush and denture cleaner regularly. The prosthesis should be removed when sleeping to avoid risk of choking and when not worn, they should be stored in a cup of water.

Regular dental visits are important to maintaining oral health as the dentists can help look for signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Even an annual visit is recommended for those without teeth and dentures to complete an oral, head, and neck cancer screening and evaluate how the prosthesis is fitting to prevent sores from poor fit.

If you have any questions on how to best care for your loved one, we would be happy to help you brainstorm ideas so that we can ensure your entire family has the oral health care they deserve! Make an appointment for a consultation at (219)929-9289 so we can work together.

Chesterton Family Dental is the general dental office of Dr. Mystie Pieters, Dr. Heather Hradek, and Dr. Robert Pieters providing comprehensive dental care for the entire family.