Training care home residents and staff about oral health

HEE south west’s team of dental hygienists delivered a 45-minute session to care home residents and staff at Primley House in Paignton with approximately 40 residents aged over 65 years old with nursing or personal care needs. The team offer training to members of the health and social care workforce about the importance of oral health, especially when linked to systemic health, and how improving oral health improves the health and well-being of patients.

Gayle Kime, Clinical Mouth Care Training Lead at HEE south west said:

“While the focus of much of my work has been on care staff, it was a delight to be asked to provide training for the residents. They engaged with me from the start and wanted to know about different types of toothbrushes that could help clean them better. I demonstrated techniques with both manual and electric toothbrushes and discussed different kinds of toothpaste.  

“Some wanted to talk about interdental cleaning and how others can help them to maintain good oral health. 

“We discussed the importance of Fluoride and how to reduce the risk of decay and gum disease and more importantly, how to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth to reduce the risk of other associated conditions.

“They were particularly interested in dry mouth as many of them are on multiple medications and struggle with the symptoms, although many of them didn’t realise it is a condition and that there are products to help them feel more comfortable”.

Contact our team for any further information.