Dental Care at SNF?

Korky777

My dad's SNF no longer has access to a dentist/hygienist who will visit the facility, which means that Dad has gone a year without a dental visit. He gets oral cares every day and can still brush his own teeth, but I worry that a dental issue could go unnoticed and start a cascade of other health issues. I've called all the dentists within 50 miles and none can see him because he is unable to transfer into the dental chair without a lift. He has dementia and I worry that any visit to a dentist will be hard on him cognitively, let alone a long drive.

I've even wondered about seeing if we could hire a hygienest ourselves to come in, but I'm sure there would be insurance/liability issues which would make it a no-go even if one was available and willing to do that. What have others done?

mommyandme (m&m)

Im currently looking for roving dental services for my mom.  I think she needs a few front nubs removed.  I think she’s quite uncomfortable because of them.  I am not able to get her to a dentist since she’s bedridden and the trauma of trying to move her will be immense. 

This is really hard. 

Ed1937

Yes, this is hard. Where they are in progression can have a lot to do with things like dental visits. There comes a time when they may have a very hard time cooperating with the dentist or tech. And if they are in late stage of the disease, it might be best to just let dental visits go unless medically necessary or it is painful.

JJAz

We used a mobile dentist company with great success.  They had mobile carts with self contained water that they wheeled into my husband's room along with 2 staff.  An exam was done by camera with a remote dentist.  On site staff did xrays & cleanings.  Surprisingly, it wasn't much more expensive than a regular dentist.  Ask the staff at the SNF for their recommendation.

Korky777

Thank you all for your comments and for the suggestion of seeking a mobile dentist. It helps to know I'm not the only one who has faced this and felt helpless. There aren't any mobile dentists who service our part of the state of Wisconsin, but I'll keep exploring all the options. I wish the best for all of you. This is, indeed, hard. Be well and take care.

BrooklynHickman

It might be worth discussing your concerns with his healthcare team at the SNF to see if they have any suggestions or resources available to help.
Another option might be to contact a mobile dental service or a dental professional who specializes in treating patients with dementia. They can provide dental care in your dad's room, which is less overwhelming for him than a trip to the dentist's office. Another option is to treat his teeth as he is under light anesthesia, like https://crowndentalgroup.com.au/treatments/cosmetic-dentistry/ do.