Oral Care for Medical Staff in Residential Facilities

Which of the following is not a risk factor for tooth decay and gum disease?

• Bacteria

• Healthy diet

• Sugary foods

• Not brushing daily

Which of the following statements is true?

• If the resident does not have teeth, there is no need to clean the mouth.

• Dentures or removable appliances should be removed and cleaned daily.

• If the resident is bedridden, oral care is not important.

• Ideally, natural teeth should be brushed for 30 seconds.

Which of the following is a FALSE statement?

• After brushing, toothbrushes should be rinsed well and allowed to air dry.

• A good suitable toothbrush helps to maintain good oral hygiene.

• It is best to use a medium or hard-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth.

• There are many different size toothbrush heads and handles to choose from.

What is the most likely reason a resident may increase the risk of losing a tooth?

• The increased use of multiple prescription medications.

• The resident has recently seen the dentist.

• Increased use of dental insurance.

• The presence of fluoride in the water.

Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding an elderly resident with dementia?

• Poor oral health in a dementia patient is due to age alone.

• Residents with dementia may struggle with daily chores including brushing.

• Just reminding one with dementia is adequate to maintain good oral health.

• Medications have little effect on their oral health.

Residents with missing teeth & poor hygiene are at risk of worsening if the following nutritional behaviors exist?

• Use of sugared candies to help with dry mouth.

• Consistent soft diet.

• Constant snacking of sugary foods, drinks and carbohydrates.

• All 3 choices are risks.

When brushing, the best technique used is:

• Move in an up-and-down motion.

• Brush with a stiff, hard bristled toothbrush.

• Scrub in a back-and-forth method with a hard firm grip.

• Move in a circular motion.

In what position should the resident be when brushing?

• The position of resident does not matter.

• Lying flat in the bed when using toothpaste and rinsing.

• When possible, sitting up in bed, chair or standing.

Which is a FALSE statement about dentures?

• Protect denture when cleaning, place a towel or fill the sink with water.

• They do need to be cleaned; they are not natural teeth.

• The denture should be checked for cracks to prevent sore spots in mouth.

Can poor oral hygiene possibly make a resident very ill?

• True

• False