MANAGING SYMPTOMS( continued)
Some ways to make the task easier for someone with difficulty in gripping a toothbrush handle:
• An electric / power toothbrush will help.
• Another way to build up the handle of the toothbrush is to wrap a washcloth around the handle and secure it with rubber bands. Wrapping rubber bands around the handle before wrapping the wash cloth will reduce slippage of the washcloth.
• Commercially available thick handles into which the toothbrush can be slid.
• Toothbrushes are available with thick handles ergonomically shaped to fit the hand, with the head of the toothbrush angled in a way to allow better contact with the teeth when there is limited elbow and shoulder mobility.
Other tips
• After eating, rinse the mouth with water and use a wet washcloth to sweep through the folds of the cheek. These techniques help to remove food that may be tucked away inside the mouth.
• Use fluoridated toothpaste and also consider using over-the-counter fluoride rinses or a non-alcohol mouthwash.
• If teeth are sensitive, try desensitizing toothpaste.
• If you wear dentures, remove them and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub gums.
• If you wear a partial, remove it so that all areas of the teeth and gums can be cleaned.
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How to brush and take care of another person’ s teeth
• The bathroom does not have to be the only place that you help someone brush their teeth. It may be easier for the person to sit at the kitchen table. Make sure you have good light so you can see inside the person’ s mouth.
• First, wash your hands, and then put on disposable gloves.
• Sit or stand in a position where you can see all the teeth.
• Have your toothbrush, bowl or basin, rinsing cup, floss, and towel within reach.
• Make sure your manual or electric toothbrush has a small head with SOFT bristles. You may need to use a child’ s toothbrush.
• Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. If toothpaste bothers someone with swallowing problems, brush with just water instead.
• Replace the toothbrush every three months. Replace it earlier if bristles are worn, and always after a contagious oral or respiratory tract illness. This is something so many dental patients forget to do.
• Be sure to use an apron, towel, or bib draped over a wide area beneath the patient’ s chin to catch drops of saliva.
• If standing in front of the patient is too difficult, try working from the side and cushioning the patient’ s head with your other arm, lightly holding their head next to your body. You may find it easier to stand behind the person. See what works best for both of you.
• Make sure the person is comfortable and is seated as upright as possible. Place the toothbrush on the gum line. Brush one or two teeth at a time in small, gentle circles. In order to see well, you can lift the lip or cheeks with another toothbrush or a finger on your other hand. Set up a pattern so that you clean all the surfaces of the teeth— outside, inside, and chewing surfaces.
• Gently brush the inside of the cheeks and the top of the tongue. Help the person rinse with plain water. If they have difficulty, sweep the mouth with gauze.