Essential Oral Health Tips for People Living with Dementia

Why Oral Health Matters in Dementia Care

Good oral hygiene is vital for overall health and well-being—especially for people living with dementia. Poor mouth care can lead to:

• Pain and discomfort that may go uncommunicated
• Tooth decay, gum disease, and infection
• Difficulty eating, leading to weight loss or malnutrition
• Speech and communication challenges
• Increased risk of pneumonia from bacteria aspiration

Caring for someone with dementia often involves navigating changing routines, memory loss, and resistance to assistance. Yet maintaining a simple daily mouth-care routine can dramatically improve comfort, nutrition, and quality of life.

Common Challenges in Dementia Mouth Care

1. Resistance to Brushing
   — Fear or confusion can cause refusal.
2. Dry Mouth
   — Often a side effect of medications, increasing decay risk.
3. Denture Management
   — Poorly fitting dentures can cause soreness, sores, or embarrassment.
4. Communication Barriers
   — Pain or discomfort may not be verbally expressed.
5. Caregiver Fatigue
   — Time pressures or uncertainty about proper technique can lead to skipped routines.

Practical Mouth-Care Strategies

1. Establish a Gentle Routine

• Consistent timing: Brush teeth or clean dentures at the same times each day (e.g., after breakfast and before bed).
• Familiar environment: Use the same bathroom and adapt lighting to reduce confusion.

2. Use Suitable Tools

• Soft-bristled brushes: Minimise gum trauma.
• Fluoride toothpaste: Strengthens enamel and prevents decay.
• Denture brushes & mild soap: Keep dentures clean without harsh chemicals.
• Mouth moisturisers: Combat dry mouth if recommended by a dentist or pharmacist.

3. Offer Simple Prompts & Reassurance

• Use hand-over-hand guidance: Gently guide their hand with the toothbrush.
• Narrate the steps: “Now we’re brushing the front teeth, now the back.”
• Positive reinforcement: Praise cooperation—“You’re doing great!”

4. Monitor for Early Signs of Problems

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
• Discomfort or refusal when eating certain foods
• Loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a dental check-up promptly—early intervention prevents escalation.

Supporting Your Loved One & Yourself

• Training & Resources: Equip yourself with techniques from specialist guides.
• Professional Support: Engage domiciliary carers or specialist dementia care providers familiar with mouth-care best practices.
• Self-Care for Carers: Take breaks, ask for respite care, or consult peer-support groups (e.g., Carers UK) to avoid burnout.

Download the Full Mouth Care & Oral Health Guide

For detailed, step-by-step instructions and advice on all aspects of mouth care in dementia, download the free Dementia UK guide:

👉 Dementia UK: Mouth Care & Oral Health Guide (PDF)

This comprehensive resource covers:

• Tailored brushing and denture routines
• Managing dry mouth and medication side effects
• When and how to seek professional dental care
• Practical tips for carers and professional care teams

Signposting Help & Further Reading

• Dementia UK – Specialist support for families and carers
• Carers UK – Advice sheets and peer networks
• NHS Mouth Care Advice – General oral health guidelines

Maintaining good oral health in dementia needn’t be daunting. With gentle routines, the right tools, and trusted resources, you can help your loved one enjoy greater comfort, dignity, and well-being—one smile at a time.

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