Must-Have Oral Care Items That Make Things Easy for a Parent With Arthritis
Arthritis has no cure. It can also make oral care seem impossible. Aching fingers have a hard time getting into the mouth to floss properly. Brushing the backs of molars can also be difficult. Here are some oral care items that will make oral care easier for your mom and dad.
Elder Care in Loveland OH: Seniors with Arthritis
Plaque Rinse
Using a plaque rinse before brushing and flossing teeth is a smart idea. Products like Plax help loosen plaque to remove more of it when brushing and flossing. Look for products that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance. That seal is given by the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs. They only give the seal to products that are scientifically proven to be effective and safe.
Toothbrushes
If a toothbrush is too heavy, it can be hard for an arthritis sufferer to hold it properly for the full two minutes of brushing. Electric toothbrushes tend to be ideal. Look for one that has a slim handle and that’s rechargeable. A small toothbrush head will make it easier to get to the back teeth. People with arthritis find that the Oral B devices tend to be the lightest and easiest to use.
If a non-electric toothbrush is preferred, look into sleeves that slide onto the toothbrush handle to provide an easier grip. Companies like Ablewear, Grip-Easy, and TePe all make grippers that slide onto the toothbrush. If you’d rather have a built-in grip, look at the VIOLife toothbrush that’s designed for kids, but the round, ergonomic handle is ideal when you have arthritis.
Air or Water Flosser
Some flossing devices use blasts of water or air to remove plaque and food particles from between and behind teeth. These are usually far easier for a senior with arthritis to use. Waterpik is known as the water flosser. It has a round handle and simple push-button controls. The device does have a hose that’s connected to a water reservoir, so you need room on the counter for it.
Philips Sonicare makes an air flosser that can be used with mouthwash for extra protection. It also has a round handle and push-button controls. The water reservoir on the air flosser is in the handle, so there’s no hose to contend with. You can fill the reservoir with mouthwash or water, which is also handy.
When oral care is a real issue, it may be time to help. Many seniors end up needing help with grooming and personal care tasks. Some of these senior care needs are things you can help with. If you work or your mom or dad doesn’t relish the idea of you helping them with personal care, hire a caregiver.
Grooming and personal care tasks are services offered by caregivers. Your parent receives help with activities of daily living and gains a companion. Learn more by calling a senior care agency.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in Loveland, OH, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Michele Vollmer is a visionary leader who is perpetually searching for ways to improve, so to remain at the leading edge of the home care industry.She has served in the healthcare industry since 1989, including pharmaceutical and home health sales, as well as hospice sales and sales management.
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