Get ready to brush up on your oral care knowledge! 🦷 In this episode, Emily and Eva explore the world of oral hygiene products in SNF care—what works, what doesn’t, and what might actually be harmful. Whether you're an SLP, nurse, OT, or just really into responsible toothbrushing, listen up because this was made for you!

We break down the findings of the article “Hospital Mouth: Dental Aids May Cause Dental Erosion” by Meurman et al., which tested the impact of common oral care tools on dental health. Spoiler: not all swabs are created equal. Learn what to watch for in your patients with limited oral control, dry mouth, or persistent open oral posture, and how to adapt your practice with safety and dignity in mind.

You’ll learn:

 The pros and cons of different oral care products used in medical settings

 Why lemon-glycerin swabs might be more harmful than helpful

 How to adapt oral care routines for patients with dysphagia or reduced oral motor control

 How repeated exposure to citric acid can affect dental surfaces

 Creative ways to make oral care a functional part of dysphagia therapy

 Tips for collaborating with nursing and occupational therapy

 How to advocate for safer, patient-centered oral care supplies

Articles Cited:

Meurman, J.H. et al. Hospital Mouth: Dental Aids May Cause Dental Erosion.

Freebie:

Glycerin Swab In Service: Easily explain the benefits and differences between different types of oral care products! Share the usefulness of oral care tools and best practices easily with your team. 

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