People who lie in bed for long periods or find self care difficult are easily overlooked when it comes to mouth hygiene. Regular oral care lowers the chance of infection and makes the person more comfortable.
- People who stay in bed build up plaque quickly because the mouth is dry and they cannot brush themselves.
- Brush gently with a soft brush, wipe gums and tongue with gauze, use little water and toothpaste, and turn the head to avoid choking.
- Remove and clean dentures, let the gums rest overnight and check the gums regularly.
- Swollen or sore gums, ulcers, white patches or strong bad breath mean the person should be examined.
Why does it need special attention?
People who stay in one place often eat little, have a dry mouth and cannot brush on their own, so plaque builds up quickly and leads to gum inflammation, decay and bad breath. Bacteria from the mouth can also be breathed into the lungs when swallowing is poor, so keeping the mouth clean also helps prevent complications. You can read our article on oral care for people over 60.
Prepare before you start
- Wash your hands, wear gloves if you have them, and prepare a soft brush, clean cloth or gauze, a cup of water and a bowl.
- If the person can sit, prop them up high. If they must lie down, turn the head to one side so liquid runs out of the mouth, which prevents choking.
- Explain gently so the person feels at ease and cooperates.
Steps for cleaning the mouth
- Use a soft brush with only a little toothpaste, brushing each area gently, including along the gum line, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces.
- Wipe the gums, tongue and palate with gauze moistened with clean water.
- Wipe out foam and liquid with gauze, and do not ask the person to rinse if they are likely to choke.
- Do this twice a day, at least once in the evening.
Caring for dentures
If the person wears dentures, remove them, brush them clean and let the gums rest overnight. See our article on caring for removable dentures. Check the gums for red, sore or ulcerated spots caused by rubbing from the denture.
Dry mouth and signs to watch for
- A dry mouth caused by medicines or mouth breathing: give small sips of water as advised. See our article on dry mouth from medicines.
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums, ulcers, white patches or loose teeth.
- Strong bad breath or signs of pain while eating.
If you notice these signs, please take the person for a check. You are welcome to visit Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa, 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter time slots and how to help the person travel.
Frequently asked questions
How often should the mouth of a bedridden person be cleaned?
At least twice a day, including once in the evening. If the person is tube fed or has a very dry mouth, it may need to be done more often as the doctor advises.
How can I avoid choking while brushing?
Prop the person up high or turn the head to one side, use only a little toothpaste and water, and wipe away foam with gauze instead of asking them to rinse.
Can mouthwash be used?
Only if the person can spit safely and the doctor agrees. If choking is likely, wipe the mouth with gauze moistened with clean water instead.