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brushing teeth(2)

Does anyone have a tip for brushing teeth when our loved one rejects the brush or bites it?

I am trying to be consistent, but my DW is rejecting a "foreign" object in her mouth. She understands the concept, but the "object" is distressing to her. We rinse as a last resort.

My neighbor is a dentist, but have not run in to her for advice. Hopefully soon.

Thanks!

Comments

  • PlentyQuiet
    PlentyQuiet Member Posts: 88
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    A toothbrush has the hard plastic surface that may bump up against tender gums with even the most gentle help. Try an oral swab, it's like a sponge on a stick. It won't be as efficient t as a regular toothbrush but may help for the time being.
  • Comrade
    Comrade Member Posts: 52
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    What a great idea. Thank you.
  • Ed1937
    Ed1937 Member Posts: 5,084
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    Comrade, someone mentioned that there are dental treats for people, just as there are for dogs. I don't know of anyone who used them, but that might be something to consider if nothing else works, and she will use them.
  • Comrade
    Comrade Member Posts: 52
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    Another idea. Thank you.
  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,306
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    A water pik can remove some plaque.

    Iris

  • Marie58
    Marie58 Member Posts: 382
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    Ed1937 wrote:
    Comrade, someone mentioned that there are dental treats for people, just as there are for dogs. I don't know of anyone who used them, but that might be something to consider if nothing else works, and she will use them.
    This is an issue for my DH as well. Has anyone used these 'treats' and do they work? My DH doesn't open his mouth well and bites the toothbrush. I got a soft, child size one but that didn't help much. He chews fine so if these are available I think it would work for him.
  • Ed1937
    Ed1937 Member Posts: 5,084
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  • Marie58
    Marie58 Member Posts: 382
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    Thanks Ed. I did a search too. Just wondering if anyone knows if they work before I waste my money haha.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more