Oral care is the practice of keeping the mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue clean and healthy. Good oral care helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, mouth infections, bad breath, and discomfort.
It includes:
* Brushing the teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste.
* Cleaning the tongue and gums gently.
* Rinsing the mouth after meals when appropriate.
* Keeping the mouth moist, especially in patients who are unable to drink adequately.
* Providing regular mouth care for bedridden or unconscious patients.
* Observing the mouth for sores, bleeding, swelling, dryness, or signs of infection.