Oral health care is crucial for overall health and well-being, and as we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain good oral health, especially for those in care. Poor oral hygiene can lead to many health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay and even heart disease.
Maintaining good oral health can help those living in care homes to feel more confident when socialising and smiling. Oral health is crucial to maintaining a healthy smile and ensuring that those you support can eat, drink and take medication.
In 2019 the Care Quality Commission (CQC) released their findings on their Smiling Matters report, which revealed a lack of awareness of the guideline recommendations published in 2016, known as the NICE guidelines, establishing the significance of oral care for individuals living in care homes.
However, since then, a review done in 2022 revealed progress was being made, proving that care homes have made significant strides in assessing an individual’s oral health and are now much more aware of the NICE guidelines set in 2016 than they were in the Smiling Matters report done in 2019.
However, despite the changes, there is always room for improvement. Consistent care and equal access to NHS dentistry remain unfair for individuals in care homes.
A great way to ensure that you provide those you support the highest quality of care and help to maintain good oral health is by taking a care training course. Such courses can teach you how to properly assist people with maintaining good oral health by providing you with the knowledge and skills needed. These skills are crucial when working in care.
If you are looking for some training on this topic, whether you work in the care industry or are supporting a loved one, look no further! one of the many courses we offer is our Oral Care (Brushing Teeth) Micro Course for only 99p!
Another great way to ensure that you are providing the best care possible is by familiarising yourself with the NICE Guidelines.
Maintaining good oral health is crucial for both physical and mental health, especially for those in later life. By providing effective oral health care, we can all help to ensure that those in care can live happy and healthy lives.
