Providing Denture Care ~ Nursing

Providing Denture Care

Equipment
■ Toothbrush or sponge toothettes.
■ Denture cleaning paste.
■ Emesis basin.
■ Towel.
■ Glass of water.
■ Mouthwash and/or lip moisturizer, if desired.
■ Procedure gloves.
■ Mask and goggles if splashing may occur.
■ Tonsil-tip suction connected to suction source (if aspiration is a concern).
■ Denture cup.

Assessment
■ Assess:
■ Patient’s ability to assist with oral care.
■ General oral health (e.g., presence of the gag reflex and condition of teeth, gums, and mucous membranes).
■ Swallowing ability.
■ Whether the patient has dentures, bridgework, or partial plates.
■ Assess patient’s usual oral care, including cultural practices.
■ Be Smart! If the patient has dentures, examine the mouth with and without the dentures. Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Check to see that dentures are comfortable and fit properly.
■ Inspect the gums and mucous membranes to verify that they are free of food particles.
■ Inspect for abnormalities, such as bleeding, that may have been stimulated by mouth care.
■ Assess the patient’s tolerance of and satisfaction with the care.

Key Points
■ If the patient is at risk for choking, suction secretions as needed.
■ Remove (and replace) the top denture before the lower denture.
■ Tilt dentures slightly when removing and replacing.
■ Be Safe! Handle dentures carefully, and place the towel in the sink to avoid breaking the dentures if you drop them.
■ Use cool water and a stiff-bristled brush; brush all surfaces and rinse thoroughly.
■ Apply denture adhesive, if the patient uses it.
■ If dentures are dry, moisten them before reinserting.
■ Offer mouthwash.

Documentation
■ Document that oral care was given, the patient’s response, any abnormal findings, and nursing interventions.
■ Oral care is usually charted on a flowsheet.