Hi I provide care total care for my mom, she has not been able to follow instructions anymore, so basically I provide her care. Mom is a dementia patient, with many physical ailments. I love my mom, and I have no problems caring for her with the assist of my husband. Problem is when I brush her teeth she swallows the toothpaste and mouthwash, I am reluctant now to even try because she continually does this. I use the lemon swabs now, but I am concerned that it is not enough. Does anyone have any ideas on what we can do?
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/oral-care-strategies-older-adults-175335.htm
It is not as good as a brush, but buy from your dentist 2X2 gauze(ours is non-woven, rayon polyester formed fabric), as theirs is better and doesn't leave bits of gauze
Wet the gauze with that alcohol free, fluoride mouthwash and gently rub her teeth cleaned. This is if she won't let you brush at all.
There is another product to get between her teeth. BUTLER "Soft Pics"
They are disposible. Another are "go be tweens"They come in packs of maybe8-10 and can be reused if rinsed and dried. Get the smallest .
These all can be found in your pharmacy, grocery stores, wallmarts, etc
Your mom is who she is, these are just ideas.
I also use a Butler END TUFF brush which only cleans one tooth at a time,and mostly the ones far back that you can't reach. The handle is long, and it reaches a specific tooth you need to get. Again a private pharmacy may have or all a periodontal denal office and they could give you one to try, Then order a dozen if you like from that office.
RMEMBER, if you use toothpaste, it really is the toothbrush that cleans her teeth.
Toothpaste is to a toothbrush , as catchup is to hotdog, or sugar to ice tea..Its not necessary....its purpose is to make the toothbrush more fun and to put fluoride on the teeth. So only put a "pea" size amt on the brush.
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My dad is age 97. I take him to the dentist 2 x year. And they sometimes give him fluoride treatments. DO ASK your dentists/hygienist for ideas.
I think it is wonderful that you are so concerned. Your mom won't tell you when a tooth hurts till it is too late. You need to keep her going to a dentist to check for decay. The elderly have dryer mouths and more root exposure which decays quickly.
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