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Oral care

Hitz Lindenmüller, Irène and Lambrecht, J. Thomas. (2011) Oral care. Current problems in dermatology, Vol. 40. pp. 107-115.

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Official URL: http://edoc.unibas.ch/dok/A6007486

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Abstract

Adequate dental and oral hygiene may become a challenge for all users and especially for elderly people and young children because of their limited motor skills. The same holds true for patients undergoing/recovering from chemo-/radiotherapy with accompanying sensitive mucosal conditions. Poor dental hygiene can result in tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth loss, bad breath (halitosis), fungal infection and gum diseases. The use of a toothbrush is the most important measure for oral hygiene. Toothbrushes with soft bristles operated carefully by hand or via an electric device help to remove plaque and to avoid mucosal trauma. A handlebar with a grip cover can be helpful for manually disabled patients or for those with reduced motor skills. In case of oral hygiene at the bedside or of patients during/after chemo-/radiotherapy a gauze pad can be helpful for gently cleaning the teeth, gums and tongue. The use of fluoride toothpaste is imperative for the daily oral hygiene. Detergents such as sodium lauryl sulphate improve the cleaning action but may also dehydrate and irritate the mucous membrane. The use of products containing detergents and flavouring agents (peppermint, menthol, cinnamon) should therefore be avoided by bedridden patients or those with dry mouth and sensitive mucosa. Aids for suitable interdental cleaning, such as dental floss, interdental brushes or dental sticks, are often complicated to operate. Their correct use should be instructed by healthcare professionals. To support dental care, additional fluoridation with a fluoride gel or rinse can be useful. Products further containing antiseptics such as chlorhexidine or triclosan reduce the quantity of bacteria in the mouth. For patients undergoing or having undergone radio-/chemotherapy, a mouthwash that concomitantly moisturizes the oral mucosa is advisable.
Faculties and Departments:03 Faculty of Medicine > Departement Zahnmedizin > Ehemalige Einheiten Zahnmedizin > Kieferchirurgie (Lambrecht)
UniBasel Contributors:Lambrecht, Thomas
Item Type:Article, refereed
Article Subtype:Further Journal Contribution
Note:Also published in: Topical applications and the mucosa. - Basel : Karger, 2011. - S. 107-115 -- Publication type according to Uni Basel Research Database: Journal item
Last Modified:24 May 2013 09:23
Deposited On:24 May 2013 09:14

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