Dysphagia

 

Oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene is important for all patients but is of particular importance in patients with dysphagia as swallowing problems may compromise oral hygiene because:

• Saliva – Flushes away debris and breaks down and destroys bacteria; patients with dysphagia may drool saliva rather than swallowing it
• Tongue – The tongue brushes food debris on the inside of the teeth and manoeuvres food out of the oral cavity; following stroke, movement of the tongue and swallowing problems may make it more difficult for the patient to maintain a clean mouth

Good oral hygiene makes the mouth feel clean and fresh and gives patients a sense of well-being.

Healthy mouth	Furry tongue