Tremor, one sided weakness or trouble swallowing make it hard to brush alone. Support from family keeps the mouth clean while lowering the risk of choking.
- Tremor, one sided weakness and trouble swallowing make it hard for people after a stroke or with Parkinson's disease to keep their mouth clean.
- When brushing for them, keep them seated upright with the head slightly forward and use very little toothpaste to avoid choking.
- Brush the weak side carefully and check for food trapped between the cheek and the teeth.
- A loose denture, swollen sore gums or refusing food because of mouth pain are reasons to see a dentist.
After a stroke or when living with Parkinson's disease, many people can no longer brush as neatly as before. Tremor, weakness on one side, difficulty holding a toothbrush or trouble swallowing mean oral hygiene is often left half done. Poor oral hygiene lets bacteria build up, which leads to gum inflammation and decay and can affect general health.
Common difficulties
- Tremor or weakness, so brushing is not thorough, especially on the weak side.
- Trouble swallowing, with a risk of choking when rinsing or when there is a lot of saliva or foam.
- Dry mouth and food trapped in the weak cheek without the person noticing.
- Dentures that no longer fit because of changes in the muscles of the lips, cheeks and tongue.
How can family help?
Choose a seated, upright position with the head tilted slightly forward. Do not let the person lie flat on their back while brushing, as this makes choking more likely. The carer stands or sits beside them and helps.
- Use a soft toothbrush with a thick handle, or wrap the handle with foam so it is easier to hold.
- Use only a rice grain sized amount of toothpaste and wipe or suction away the foam instead of asking the person to rinse a lot.
- Brush the weak side carefully and check for food stuck between the cheek and the teeth.
- Brush twice a day, especially before bed.
Dentures and dry mouth
People who wear dentures should take them out, clean them daily and let them rest overnight. If a denture is loose or rubs the gum painfully, it should be checked by a dentist. Dry mouth can be eased with small sips of water and by keeping the mouth moist as advised by the doctor.
When should you bring the person for a check?
Please bring the person in if there is red, swollen or bleeding gum, a painful or loose tooth, long lasting bad breath, a sore denture or if they stop eating because of mouth pain. Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Families can call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, which suits people who find it hard to travel.
Frequently asked questions
Should both sides of the mouth be brushed for someone with one sided weakness?
Yes. The weak side often traps more food that the person cannot feel, so both sides need careful brushing and checking every time.
How can choking be avoided when brushing for someone who has trouble swallowing?
Keep them upright with the head slightly forward, use very little toothpaste and wipe or suction away foam instead of asking for a lot of rinsing. If choking still happens, ask a doctor for specific guidance.
Does a denture need replacing after facial weakness?
It may need adjusting or remaking if it no longer fits. Please bring the person in so the dentist can assess it.