The Impact of Dental Hygienists in Long-Term Care Facilities
Three Years of Transformation
After three wonderful years working side by side with personal support workers (PABs) and nurses, we're seeing an incredible positive shift in the oral care of our residents.
The change didn't happen overnight. It took patience, education, and building trust with both staff and residents. But the results speak for themselves: healthier mouths, happier residents, and caregivers who now understand the importance of daily oral hygiene.
My Wish for Every Facility
I dream of a future where every long-term care facility has a dedicated dental hygienist who can provide one-on-one, quality care to each patient.
Currently, oral health is often overlooked in residential care settings. Staff are stretched thin, and dental care falls to the bottom of the priority list. But the consequences of neglect are severe:
- Painful infections
- Difficulty eating and proper nutrition
- Decreased quality of life
- Preventable tooth loss
- Tooth decay and gum disease affect taste
- Missing teeth make eating difficult
- Oral infections reduce appetite
- Poor dental health impacts overall nutrition
Why Oral Health Matters for Seniors
I once read that one of the last pleasures to fade is the true sense of taste. Think about that for a moment. When so many other abilities decline with age, the joy of tasting a favourite food remains.
But poor oral health robs people of this simple pleasure:
Let's Help Them Keep That Joy
Through better dental care, we can help our seniors maintain their dignity, their health, and yes—their ability to enjoy a good meal.
If you work in a long-term care facility or have a loved one in residential care, I'd love to discuss how we can improve their oral health outcomes.
Contact us at 514-431-1999 to learn about our services for long-term care facilities and home visits.