Dental Care Tips For Caregivers of Developmentally Disabled Adults and ChildrenIf the person you care for is unable to brush, these suggestions might be helpful.
- First, wash your hands and put on disposable gloves.
- Sit or stand where you can see all of the surfaces of the teeth.
- Be sure to use a regular or power toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Use a pea-size amount of toothpaste with fluoride, or none at all. Toothpaste bothers people who have swallowing problems. If this is the case for the person you care for, brush with water instead.
- Brush the front, back, and top of each tooth. Gently brush back and forth in short strokes.
- Gently brush the tongue after you brush the teeth.
- Help the person rinse with plain water. Give people who can't rinse a drink of water or consider sweeping the mouth with a finger wrapped in gauze.
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Source: National Institute of Dental Care
