Dementia and Dental Care: How to Keep the Mouth Healthy and Pain-Free

Caring for someone with dementia goes beyond daily routines—it’s about preserving their comfort, dignity, and health in every way possible. One area that often gets overlooked but plays a crucial role in overall well-being is oral care.

As dementia progresses, brushing teeth or cleaning dentures may become confusing or even frightening for a person. They may forget what a toothbrush is for or feel anxious about the process. But here’s the truth: proper oral care is more than just keeping the mouth clean—it’s essential for eating well, preventing infections, and maintaining comfort.

Why Oral Care Matters

🦷 Health Starts in the Mouth: Poor oral hygiene can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even serious complications like respiratory infections or pneumonia.
🥄 Better Digestion: Healthy teeth and gums help with proper chewing, which is the first step in the digestive process.
❤️ Dignity and Comfort: A clean mouth helps your loved one feel fresh, confident, and pain-free.

Gentle Caregiver Approaches

Supporting someone with dementia during oral care calls for patience, creativity, and compassion. Here’s how caregivers can help make the experience more positive:

✔️ Use Simple Step-by-Step Instructions

Break tasks down into bite-sized actions like:

Hold your toothbrush.
Put some toothpaste on.
Now gently brush your teeth.

Keep your tone calm and reassuring.

✔️ Monitor Daily Routines

Encourage brushing or denture care after every meal. If they need help, gently brush their:

Teeth or dentures
Gums
Tongue
Roof of the mouth

✔️ Watch for Discomfort

Facial expressions like grimacing or repeated coughing while eating could signal:

Mouth pain
Swallowing problems
Dental issues

These signs mean it might be time to check with a dentist or modify your approach.

✔️ Dentures: Respect Personal Preferences

Some people with dementia may choose not to wear dentures while eating—and that’s okay. Let comfort guide decisions.

✔️ Adjust for Advanced Dementia

If using a toothbrush becomes too difficult, a toothette (a soft, sponge-like swab) can be a gentle alternative.

🛑 Important: If your loved one clenches their jaw, don’t try to force the brush. Just wait patiently.

Create a Calming Environment

Environment makes all the difference. Try these tips to set a soothing scene:

Play soft music
Offer comfortable seating
Choose a familiar bathroom or setting
Use consistent routines to signal “It’s time to brush!”

The goal? Make the moment feel safe—not stressful.

Don’t Skip the Dentist

🪥 Regular dental check-ups should be part of care for as long as possible. Even if visits become less frequent, a professional can help spot problems before they grow.

Final Thoughts

Good oral care is a small act with a big impact. It supports better health, boosts comfort, and helps your loved one feel their best. With a little patience and a lot of love, caregivers can turn this everyday task into a moment of connection and care.

At Geriatric Care Solution, we specialize in offering tailored in-home care that addresses these challenges. If you suspect that your loved one is struggling with confusion about time or place, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Contact us at 188-889-68275 or email ask@gcaresolution.com for a consultation.