Managing dementia and oral health

We should always ensure we keep on top of our oral health, so we can arm ourselves against any problems like cavities, infections and pains. According to NIA scientists, bacteria that cause gum disease are also associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, especially vascular dementia. This suggests a relationship between gum disease and dementia, and the need to make sure people who are living with dementia and their oral care are being maintained.

How does dementia affect oral health?

Because people living with dementia cognitively decline over time, they typically experience symptoms such as memory loss and reduced ability to maintain their day-to-day hygiene. This means that they may forget to brush their teeth, have difficulty holding a toothbrush, or find it challenging to communicate any oral pain they are facing. These problems will vary from person to person, but over time, not addressing these issues leads to a host of adverse effects and an increasing need for dental treatment.

What are the signs of oral health issues in people with dementia?

It is important that you are aware of clues that suggest that someone living with dementia may be experiencing oral health issues. Sometimes, people living with dementia may find it difficult to express any pain or discomfort they may be facing, or they may be confused with what they are experiencing. Common signs include:

• Holding their face
• Bleeding gums when brushing teeth
• Appearing sensitive to hold or cold food or drink
• Changes in speech
• Drooling or excessive saliva
• Behaviour change or aggression
• Increased restlessness, moaning or shouting

Ways to improve mouth care, to help manage the oral health of people with dementia

Providing oral health care for people living with dementia should be led with a kind and compassionate approach. Although there are day-to-day things you can do to help manage their oral care, you should still be attentive to any oral health issues.

Here are the ways you can help:

Encourage them to clean their teeth

People with dementia may forget to brush their teeth. You can use memory prompts such as alarms or notes by their bed to encourage them to brush their teeth. Some people may need support with brushing, so you may have to sit and prompt them to help them clean their teeth. 

Clean their teeth for them

You may need to brush their teeth for them, especially as their dementia advances, as they may have difficulty holding their toothbrush or may not like brushing their teeth themselves.

Ensure their dentures are looked after if they wear them

As their condition progresses, they may need support with adjusting to an oral hygiene routine for their dentures, such as cleaning them with a toothbrush and liquid soap or making sure they are not broken. If they do brake, you can take them to the dentist, and they will help adapt or repair them.

Getting specialist help from a dentist

People with advanced dementia may want to seek specialised dental services. These specialist dentists are trained dentists who work with dementia patients to offer care while making patients feel at ease. These services are priced the same as regular dentists'.

Resources and support for navigating dementia care

We’ve compiled a list of information on support groups, resources, resources and respite care options to provide support for caregivers of people with dementia. 

• Dementia carers support guide
• Find a support group near you
• When someone you love is diagnosed
• Respite care for your loved one

Here at Barchester, we provide oral care within our care. If you’d like to find out more about how we can help, get in touch with our friendly team today. We’re always happy to help.