1. Personal Care
Oral Hygiene

2. Oral Hygiene Care of the mouth and teeth Should be done at least TID
If pt’s condition requires frequent oral care, it should be done q2hr
Prevents disease & dental caries, stimulates appetite, provides comfort, & prevents bad breath (halitosis)
3 types of oral hygiene: routine, denture care, & special oral hygiene

3. Routine Oral Hygiene Regular, everyday brushing and flossing
Pt may be able to provide their own care
Sometimes the HCW may need to help the pt
See Procedure 21:4A

4. Denture Care Necessary when a pt has artificial teeth or dentures
HCW may need to help pt clean them
Some pts may be sensitive about having dentures so HCW should provide privacy & reassure pt
Care must be taken to prevent damage to dentures
See Procedure 21:4B

5. Special Oral Hygiene Provided for the unconscious or semiconscious pt
Many of these pts breathe through their mouths, so care must be taken to clean all parts of the mouth
Special mouth swabs or toothettes are needed
See Procedure 21:4C