Attention Caregivers

Starting to think it’s time to call the dentist?

Your loved ones or clients may well be experiencing pain or discomfort that they are not telling you about. Perhaps they’re unable to tell you, or maybe they’re trying to avoid a needed trip to the dentist. Or, they may simply not realize they have a problem.

Here are the top 12 signs that a person under your care is in serious need of dental care:

• Bad breath
• Swollen or red gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Broken teeth
• Sores or lesions on cheeks, tongue, lips, or palate
• Sores or lesions under dentures
• Dentures that don’t fit
• A yeast infection (white spots on the inside of cheeks or on the tongue, tongue may appear coated)
• Hard plaque accumulation
• Visible pimples in the mouth on the gums or lips
• Person refuses to open or let you touch their mouth

Additional indications for concern include:

• Refusing to eat
• Unintended weight loss
• Chewing that appears painful or difficult
• Social isolation
• Fingers or hands in the mouth

Remember — Inspect your client/loved one’s mouth at least once a month. To learn more about preventing dental emergencies, view our family & caregiver page.