Caregivers provide critical support to those who are unable to care for themselves on their own. They have to navigate their needs, including how autonomous they are, how much supervision is needed, and how aware they are of their surroundings. One facet of the overall care they receive that can have a meaningful impact centers around their oral health. By maintaining excellent oral health, the caregiver’s patients will have an easier time eating and enjoying their food and preventing harmful gum disease. But what steps can caregivers take to help ensure that the person they are taking care of maintains good overall oral hygiene and health?
Be the Gentle and Helpful Reminder They Need
Depending on the person receiving the care, their memory may not be what it once was. Caregivers take the time to offer gentle reminders that brushing and flossing their teeth needs to get done. Being that vocal reminder that they still have to practice self-care is one of the most important aspects of being a caregiver.
Maintain a Routine
As with your personal oral healthcare routine, the key to the overall success remains consistency. Help the person stay on their twice-daily brushing and flossing routine to maintain their oral benefits. Whether through gentle reminders or by physically assisting them with brushing their teeth, the caregiver provides a vital service to maintain a good level of oral health.
Stay Vigilant
Having the proper training, empathy, and grace under pressure can ensure that both the person and their caregiver have a solid foundation and can get out in front of potential oral health problems.When it comes to oral diseases, whether gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, or other issues, the key to dealing with the issues promptly and before they get too severe is by knowing and identifying the symptoms.
Caregivers need to be vigilant and get the dentist involved as soon as possible when there are any signs of possible mouth disease. In some cases, the person cannot articulate the problems or illnesses they may experience, so it is up to the caregiver to be knowledgeable of the possible symptoms and react accordingly by scheduling regular dental visits.
If you are a caregiver and are looking for a dental practice specializing in oral surgery in Mercer County, NJ, or need ceramic crown work in and around Hamilton, NJ, contact Hamilton Dental to schedule an appointment today.
