It’s important that children who have little or no food/drink by mouth, still have their mouths regularly cleaned to maintain good oral hygiene.

Regular teeth brushing will

• Reduce plaque which contains harmful bacteria. If these bacteria are aspirated (enters the airway/lungs) it could contribute to chest infections.
• Reduce risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Make your child’s mouth feel more comfortable.

Even when the child has no teeth present, it is still important to look after their gums and keep their mouths’ clean.

How to brush your child’s teeth/gums whilst minimising the risk of aspiration

• Brush your child’s teeth with them sitting/standing upright and with their head slightly tilted forwards.
• Use a non-foaming fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a dry toothbrush to minimise the amount of foam produced.
• Do not rinse after brushing; leave the toothpaste in the mouth. If your child has a suction device please use this to remove extra fluid or residue from the mouth.

Please contact your local Speech and Language Therapist, or other healthcare professional, if a referral to the specialist dental service is required.