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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Oral Care Policy

1. Purpose This policy outlines {{org_field_name}}’s commitment to ensuring high-quality oral care for the people we support, in compliance with CQC regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, and Regulation 9 – Person-Centred Care. Good oral health is essential for dignity, comfort, and overall well-being, reducing the risk of infections, malnutrition, and other health complications. This policy sets clear guidelines for maintaining oral hygiene, preventing oral diseases, and ensuring professional dental support where required.

2. Scope This policy applies to all care staff, nurses, and other employees at {{org_field_name}} responsible for assisting with or supervising oral care. It covers all aspects of oral hygiene, including daily mouth care, assessment, prevention of oral health issues, and access to dental treatment for the people we support.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Regulation 9 – Person-Centred Care: Ensures that oral care is included in individualised care plans.
• Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment: Mandates the provision of safe and effective oral hygiene support.
• Regulation 17 – Good Governance: Requires proper record-keeping and monitoring of oral care.
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines (NG48): Best practice recommendations for oral health in care settings.
• Mouth Care Matters Initiative (NHS England): Promotes oral care standards in care homes.
• Care Act 2014: Emphasises the duty of care in supporting the health and well-being of individuals, including oral health.

4. Principles of Good Oral Care

• Dignity and Respect: Ensuring that oral care is provided sensitively, maintaining privacy and choice.
• Person-Centred Approach: Tailoring oral care to individual needs and preferences.
• Prevention and Early Detection: Regular assessments to identify and address oral health issues.
• Collaboration with Dental Professionals: Ensuring timely referrals for dental check-ups and treatment.
• Infection Control and Hygiene: Maintaining high standards of hygiene when providing oral care.

5. Oral Health Assessment and Care Planning

• An initial oral health assessment must be completed upon admission.
• Oral health should be included in the individual’s care plan, detailing:
  • Preferred oral hygiene products (e.g., toothbrush type, toothpaste, mouthwash).
  • Level of support required (independent, partial assistance, full assistance).
  • Presence of natural teeth, dentures, or oral conditions (e.g., dry mouth, ulcers).
  • Risk factors such as medication side effects or dietary concerns.
• Regular oral health checks should be conducted at least every three months, or sooner if issues arise.

6. Daily Oral Hygiene Support

• Brushing Teeth and Dentures:
  • Teeth must be brushed twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
  • Dentures must be removed, cleaned, and stored safely overnight.
  • Staff must assist or supervise individuals unable to manage oral care independently.
• Mouth Rinsing and Hydration:
  • Individuals should be encouraged to rinse their mouths after meals if able.
  • Hydration should be monitored to prevent dry mouth and associated complications.
• Monitoring and Reporting Issues:
  • Any signs of discomfort, swelling, bleeding, bad breath, or difficulty eating must be reported immediately.
  • Persistent issues should be escalated to a dental professional.

7. Preventing Oral Health Problems

• Regular Dental Check-Ups:
  • Ensure access to routine dental care every six months or as recommended by a dentist.
  • Arrange domiciliary dental visits for individuals unable to travel.
• Dietary Considerations:
  • Reduce intake of sugary foods and drinks to prevent tooth decay.
  • Encourage a balanced diet that supports oral health.
• Oral Health for Individuals with Dysphagia or PEG Feeding:
  • Special oral care routines must be followed to prevent infections.
  • Regular oral cleaning to remove bacteria and prevent dry mouth.
• Denture Care:
  • Dentures must be properly labelled and stored in clean containers.
  • Regularly check for signs of poor fit, discomfort, or damage.

8. Supporting Individuals with Dementia or Learning Disabilities

• Adapting Oral Care Approaches:
  • Use gentle communication and reassurance to encourage cooperation.
  • Provide step-by-step guidance and allow extra time.
• Specialist Equipment:
  • Use of soft-bristled brushes or adapted toothbrushes where necessary.
• Alternative Oral Care Strategies:
  • If traditional brushing is difficult, staff should use moist gauze or oral swabs to maintain cleanliness.

9. Infection Prevention and Control

• Hand Hygiene: Staff must wash hands before and after assisting with oral care.
• PPE Usage: Gloves must be worn during oral care and disposed of after each use.
• Cleaning and Storage of Equipment:
  • Toothbrushes should be stored upright and replaced regularly.
  • Denture cups must be cleaned daily and stored in designated areas.

10. Training and Competency

• Mandatory Staff Training:
  • All care staff must complete oral care training as part of their induction.
  • Annual refresher training on best practices in oral hygiene.
• Competency Assessments:
  • Staff must be regularly assessed for competency in oral care delivery.
  • The Registered Manager oversees compliance with oral care protocols.

11. Documentation and Record-Keeping

• Daily Oral Care Logs:
  • Document whether oral care has been provided, refused, or if any concerns were noted.
• Incident Reporting:
  • Any significant oral health concerns (e.g., infections, abscesses) must be reported and documented.
• Audit and Review:
  • Oral care records must be audited regularly to ensure compliance with this policy.

12. Collaboration with External Professionals

• Engagement with Dental Services:
  • Maintain relationships with local NHS and private dental services.
  • Ensure emergency dental care access when needed.
• Multidisciplinary Approach:
  • Work alongside dietitians, speech and language therapists, and pharmacists for holistic oral health management.

13. Related Policies

• CH09-Person-Centred Care Policy
• CH12-Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH17-Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CH18-Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH27-Staff Supervision, Training, and Development Policy
• CH34-Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy

14. Policy Review

• This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are updates in CQC regulations or best practice guidelines.
• Amendments will be made to ensure continued compliance and high-quality oral care delivery.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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