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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Oral Care Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that individuals receiving care from {{org_field_name}} receive appropriate, person-centred, and dignified oral care as part of their overall health and well-being. Poor oral health can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, leading to pain, difficulty eating and speaking, infections, and an increased risk of other health complications. This policy ensures that oral care is incorporated into care planning, risk assessment, and daily support routines, in line with the Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) and SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers (2024).

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees of {{org_field_name}}, including care staff, supervisors, and management, who are responsible for supporting individuals with their oral health. It also applies to any third-party professionals involved in oral care, such as dentists, speech and language therapists, and district nurses. This policy covers the daily oral hygiene routine, support for individuals with specific oral health conditions, and training requirements for staff.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with the following:

• Personal Plans and Risk Assessment Policy, ensuring oral health is included in individual care planning.
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy, ensuring hygienic handling of oral care equipment.
• Nutrition and Hydration Policy, recognising the link between oral health and eating/drinking.
• Medication Management Policy, where oral conditions require prescribed treatments.
• Safeguarding Adults Policy, ensuring protection from neglect that may affect oral health.

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to promoting good oral health and ensuring that every individual receiving care has their oral hygiene needs met with dignity and respect. This includes:

• Providing daily support with oral care for individuals unable to maintain their own oral hygiene.
• Recognising the impact of poor oral health on general well-being and quality of life.
• Encouraging routine dental check-ups and treatment as required.
• Identifying oral health risks early and responding promptly to concerns.
• Training staff to deliver safe, person-centred, and compassionate oral care.

5. Responsibilities

5.1 Responsibilities of All Staff

All staff providing direct care must:

• Follow each individual’s personal plan for oral health care.
• Assist individuals with daily oral hygiene routines, including brushing teeth, denture care, and mouth rinsing.
• Recognise signs of oral health problems, such as pain, bleeding, swelling, bad breath, or refusal to eat.
• Support individuals in booking and attending dental appointments.
• Maintain good infection control practices, such as washing hands before and after assisting with oral care.
• Record and report any concerns about oral health to supervisors or healthcare professionals.

5.2 Responsibilities of Management and Supervisors

Management and supervisors must:

• Ensure all care staff are trained in providing effective oral care.
• Conduct spot checks and audits to monitor compliance with oral care procedures.
• Liaise with dentists, district nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate oral health support.
• Ensure personal plans include detailed oral care needs and preferences.
• Address barriers to oral care, such as dental phobias or lack of access to dental services.

5.3 Responsibilities of Individuals Receiving Care and Their Families

Where appropriate, individuals receiving care and their families are encouraged to:

• Communicate preferences and concerns regarding oral care.
• Attend regular dental check-ups to maintain oral health.
• Follow professional advice on oral hygiene and dietary choices affecting oral health.

6. Providing Daily Oral Care Support

6.1 Brushing Teeth and Denture Care

Staff must assist individuals with toothbrushing twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. This includes:

• Brushing all tooth surfaces gently and thoroughly.
• Assisting individuals who require adaptive toothbrushes or special techniques.
• Cleaning and storing dentures properly, ensuring they are removed overnight if required.

If an individual is unable to tolerate brushing, staff must explore alternative oral hygiene methods, such as oral rinses, foam swabs, or professional guidance from a dentist.

6.2 Managing Oral Health Conditions

Some individuals may have specific oral health conditions requiring additional care, including:

• Dry mouth (xerostomia): Encourage hydration and apply prescribed oral moisturisers.
• Mouth ulcers or infections: Follow prescribed treatments and monitor healing.
• Gum disease or bleeding gums: Support with gentle brushing and encourage dental visits.
• Denture-related issues: Ensure proper fit and hygiene, and report any discomfort to a dental professional.

6.3 Supporting Individuals with Cognitive Impairment

Individuals with dementia, learning disabilities, or other cognitive impairments may struggle with oral care. Staff must:

• Use gentle, reassuring communication to encourage cooperation.
• Demonstrate brushing movements or use hand-over-hand guidance.
• Seek input from specialist dental professionals where needed.

7. Recognising and Responding to Oral Health Concerns

Oral health problems may cause pain, infection, and difficulty eating, impacting general health. Staff must be trained to recognise:

• Signs of pain or discomfort when eating or speaking.
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
• Ulcers, white patches, or signs of infection.
• Persistent bad breath or difficulty swallowing.
• Loose or missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures.

Concerns must be documented and reported in accordance with incident reporting procedures and relevant healthcare professionals contacted if necessary.

8. Infection Control in Oral Care

To prevent infections, staff must:

• Wear gloves and follow hand hygiene protocols when assisting with oral care.
• Use separate toothbrushes and hygiene products for each individual.
• Store oral care products in a clean, dry place.
• Regularly clean dentures and oral appliances to prevent infections.

9. Access to Dental Services

{{org_field_name}} encourages individuals receiving care to attend regular dental check-ups. Staff will:

• Assist individuals in scheduling and attending dental appointments.
• Liaise with NHS dental services for individuals unable to visit a clinic.
• Support mobile dental services for housebound individuals.

If an individual is unable to access dental care, this must be documented, and alternative arrangements sought.

10. Training and Competency of Staff

All care staff must receive training in oral care best practices, including:

• Techniques for assisting with oral hygiene.
• Recognising oral health conditions.
• Infection control procedures.
• Supporting individuals with complex needs.

Regular refresher training and competency assessments will be conducted to maintain high standards.

11. Compliance and Monitoring

This policy aligns with the Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) and SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers (2024). Compliance will be ensured through:

• Regular audits of personal plans to confirm oral care is documented and delivered.
• Spot checks and supervision reviews to assess staff competency.
• Feedback from individuals receiving care and their families to ensure satisfaction with oral health support.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or best practices. Updates will be communicated to all staff, and additional training provided where necessary.

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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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