Mouth Care (Oral Hygiene)

1Step-by-Step Procedure

1. 1

   Gather equipment: toothbrush, toothpaste, emesis basin, cup of water, towel, gloves, lip moisturizer (optional).

2. 2

   Wash hands and put on gloves.

3. 3

   Identify the resident and explain the procedure.

4. 4

   Raise the bed to a comfortable height; raise the head of the bed to at least 45 degrees if tolerated (to prevent aspiration).

5. 5

   Place a towel across the resident's chest to protect clothing.

6. 6

   Offer the resident a sip of water to moisten the mouth.

7. 7

   Apply a small amount of toothpaste (pea-sized) to the toothbrush.

8. 8

   Brush the outer surfaces of all teeth in small circular or back-and-forth motions.

9. 9

   Brush the inner surfaces of all teeth.

10. 10

    Brush the chewing (biting) surfaces of all teeth.

11. 11

    Gently brush the tongue from back to front to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

12. 12

    Have the resident rinse with water and spit into the emesis basin, or gently wipe the mouth if the resident cannot expectorate.

13. 13

    Apply lip moisturizer if indicated.

14. 14

    Remove the towel; make the resident comfortable.

15. 15

    Empty and clean the emesis basin.

16. 16

    Remove gloves and wash hands.

17. 17

    Lower the bed; ensure call light is within reach.

18. 18

    Document mouth care provided and any observations of oral health.

What the Examiner Is Watching For

• ✓

  Gloves are worn throughout the procedure.

• ✓

  All tooth surfaces and the tongue are brushed.

• ✓

  Head of bed is elevated to prevent aspiration.

• ✓

  Towel protects the resident's clothing.

• ✓

  Equipment is cleaned and disposed of properly after use.

Common Mistakes That Cause Failure

• ⚠

  Forgetting to raise the head of the bed — this increases aspiration risk.

• ⚠

  Not brushing the tongue.

• ⚠

  Using too much toothpaste — a pea-sized amount is correct.

• ⚠

  Not protecting clothing with a towel.

• ⚠

  Removing gloves before all oral care equipment is cleaned and put away.

Tips for Exam Day

• →

  Head of bed up first — aspiration prevention is a safety priority.

• →

  Brush all surfaces: outer teeth, inner teeth, chewing surfaces, and tongue.

• →

  Gloves on for the entire procedure; remove only after all equipment is cleaned.

• →

  Lip moisturizer is the finishing touch — ask the examiner if it is part of your state's checklist.

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