FAQ

Establish a consistent routine, give simple instructions, and start with small steps. Remember, some brushing is better than no brushing. With patience and practice, daily oral care often becomes easier over time.

Learn practical techniques in our videos ____________________ and ____________________.

Aim to brush twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. If that isn’t always possible, focus on establishing a consistent routine rather than striving for perfection.

Learn more in our video ____________________.

Comment: I like “consistency rather than perfection” because it’s encouraging without lowering the standard.

The right tools can make oral care easier and more effective. Electric toothbrushes, small-headed brushes, floss holders, mouth stabilizers, and adapted oral care devices may be helpful depending on the person’s needs.

Watch our hygienist demonstrate these products in ____________________.

For information on recommended products and where to purchase them, see our Oral Care Products Guide: ____________________.

Start by contacting local dental offices and asking about their experience treating individuals with disabilities. Healthcare providers, support coordinators, and other caregivers can also be good sources of recommendations.

For additional tips on finding and choosing a dental provider, visit _______________________________.

Sharing information before the appointment can help the dental team better understand the person’s needs and provide a more comfortable experience. Let the dental team know about communication preferences, medical conditions, mobility concerns, or strategies that help the person feel at ease.

Watch our video _______________________________ to learn how to prepare for and advocate during a dental visit.

Regular dental visits help prevent problems and maintain oral health, even when there are no symptoms. A person should also see a dentist as soon as possible if they have dental pain, swelling, bleeding, broken teeth, or other oral health concerns.

Learn more in our video _______________________________.

If you are having trouble finding a dentist, consider dental schools, dental hygiene schools, community health centers, and hospital-based dental programs. We have also created a directory of disability-friendly dental resources to help you find care in your area.

Access the directory here: _______________________________.

Comment: I like “care in your area” better than “every state that is likely to be near you.” It’s simpler and more caregiver-friendly.

You do not have to eliminate all sugary foods. Instead, try to limit how often they are offered, serve them with meals rather than between meals, and avoid frequent snacking or sipping sweet drinks throughout the day. Drinking water afterward can also help wash away food and sugar.

For additional tips, visit _______________________.

Water is the best drink choice. Healthy snacks such as fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, nuts (when appropriate), and other low-sugar options are generally less likely to contribute to cavities.

To learn more about tooth-friendly food and drink choices, visit _______________________.

Foods and drinks that contain sugar or stick to the teeth can increase the risk of cavities. Common examples include candy, cookies, chips, fruit snacks, soda, juice, and other sweet drinks. Frequent snacking or sipping can increase the risk even more.

Learn more in our video _______________________.
Timestamp: _______________________

Dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, difficulty swallowing, and mouth discomfort. Encouraging frequent sips of water and using dry-mouth products may help relieve symptoms and protect oral health.

A dentist explains dry mouth management in ____________________.

To learn more about dry-mouth products and where to find them, see our Product Guide: ____________________.

A small amount of bleeding is often an early sign of gum disease or inflammation. Continue brushing gently with a soft toothbrush, paying special attention to the gumline. If the bleeding persists or worsens, schedule a dental visit for an evaluation and professional cleaning.

For a full explanation from a dentist, watch ____________________.

Contact a dentist if the person has dental pain, swelling, a broken tooth, bleeding that does not stop, or a sore in the mouth that does not heal within 14 days. Early treatment can prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

To learn more about warning signs and when to seek care, watch ____________________.

Some clients have difficulty keeping their mouth open or may bite down during oral care. Special mouth stabilizers can help make brushing safer and more comfortable for both the client and caregiver.

To learn about this technique, visit ____________________. For information about mouth stabilizers and where to purchase them, see ____________________.

Resistance to oral care is common. Try a different time of day, use a calm approach, and keep sessions short if needed. Building trust and working at your client’s pace is usually more effective than forcing care.

For practical strategies and tips, visit ____________________.