Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease comes with unique challenges, and one unexpected struggle can be ensuring proper oral hygiene. For many in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s, brushing teeth becomes difficult, often leading to frustration, confusion, or resistance. This is where Alzheimer’s care providers can make a difference. They are experienced in helping patients navigate daily routines like brushing and flossing, making the process smoother and less stressful for both you and your loved one.
Dental Care is Important for Alzheimer’s Patients
No matter how much of a struggle daily dental care is for your loved one, it’s essential to continue to strive toward successful brushing and care of his teeth. Like everyone else, he is still susceptible to gum disease, cavities, and even tooth loss if his oral care is not maintained.
While it might be okay to occasionally walk away from an attempt to brush his teeth, continually working to provide consistent oral care is imperative to his oral health.
Seven Tips to Try for Easier Tooth Brushing
- One of the first tips is to consider getting help. Your loved one may do better with a different family member or with an Alzheimer’s care provider. He might be less likely to balk at a brushing if he feels a “professional” like an Alzheimer’s care provider is assisting him.
- Let them participate. If he can still participate in brushing his teeth but seems confused as to what steps to take when, help him through it step by step, explaining each step along the way. If you live together, you can brush your teeth together so he has someone to mimic and help him get it right.
- Find the right-sized toothbrush. For some Alzheimer’s patients, a long handle will work better so no one’s hands have to go inside the mouth. Others may prefer a child-size toothbrush to make it feel less invasive and reduce gagging.
- Find the right flossing tool. Like the toothbrush, experiment with different flossing tools until you find one your loved one will use. Cleaning between those teeth is just as important as ever.
- Remember to rinse. A good rinse can knock away a lot of food particles to encourage your loved one to rinse after each brushing. If he’s willing, have him rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for added protection.
- Make a game of it. Set a timer. Put on a favorite song. All of these are great ways to distract him while you get the job done or to encourage him to complete his oral care.
- Have a reward. Incentives are good at any age. Maybe it’s putting on some favorite music after he’s done or putting on his favorite show. Whatever it is, keep gently reminding him of his reward once he’s completed all the necessary oral care steps.
Alzheimer’s Care Providers Can Help Find the Best Dental Care for Your Loved One
Don’t neglect professional dental care for your loved one and regular dentist visits. Look for dentists who have experience working with Alzheimer’s patients or even one who may come to the home. Having an Alzheimer’s care provider travel with your loved one to the dentist can help ease the process for him as well.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Alzheimer’s Care in Dixon, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
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