Elderly residents should be helped to brush their teeth twice a day, says NICE – but how to overcome the challenges of communication?

Care homes should assess, record and help residents maintain their oral health.

A new draft quality standard out for consultation advises care home staff to assess the oral health needs of their residents on admission and record these in personal care plans. They should then be supported to clean their teeth twice a day – or clean their dentures daily.

Professor Elizabeth Kay MBE, foundation dean of Peninsula Dental School, Plymouth University, professor and consultant in dental public health and specialist committee member, said: ‘Looking after someone's mouth should be as much a part of the care expected as ensuring their personal hygiene and providing adequate clean clothing.

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