Brushing teeth is crucial in care homes for dependent older people (EHPAD) because it contributes to oral health, preventing tooth decay, infections and gum disease. Poor oral hygiene can worsen existing health problems in older people.
In addition, healthy teeth support a better diet, thereby improving residents' oral health. Regular brushing can also reduce the risk of respiratory infections, which are common in older people.
Furthermore, good oral hygiene can contribute to a better quality of life by fostering residents' self-confidence and psychological well-being. It is important to train care staff in proper oral hygiene to ensure appropriate care. Educational programmes on the importance of brushing teeth can raise awareness among residents and their families, thereby encouraging good oral hygiene practices.
In short, brushing teeth in an EHPAD is essential to maintain residents' overall health, well-being and quality of life.
Learning objectives of the course
At the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Maintain the oral health of EHPAD residents,
- Specify requests for further treatment,
- Understand the importance of the mouth in the person's life, whether elderly or not,
- Adapt food textures as well as possible.
Detailed programme – 7 hours
1- The importance of teeth and of maintaining chewing ability for older people
- Description of the person,
- The functions of the mouth and how it is experienced,
- Physical and psychological ageing,
- Preservation, prevention and screening,
- Brushing teeth, loss of function,
- The food bolus,
- Saliva,
- Sleep,
- Dental plaque,
- Dental follow-up and chewing
2- Oral hygiene
- Adapt brushing for a person other than oneself,
- Positions, brushing techniques, and tips for maintaining the oral health of people who resist care,
- Write an adapted individual brushing protocol (prostheses, bleeding, diet),
- Adapt nutrition to support good digestion,
- Practical exercise: brushing the teeth of a selection of patients.
Accessibility
On request, this course can be adapted for participants with disabilities. For videoconference sessions, help with connecting to our Teams software will be sent to you along with your course invitation.
Quality indicators
98% of participants are satisfied with this course.
88% of participants recommend this course.
