It’s common for individuals in their golden years or those with limited mobility to face additional challenges when it comes to maintaining an excellent dental care routine. While it may take some modifications and added commitment, your dentist can help you achieve exceptional oral health and a brilliant smile under a variety of circumstances. Here are a few dental care tips if you have mobility challenges.

4 Dental Care Tips to Try When You Have Limited Mobility

1. Invest in an Electric Toothbrush

If you have minimal wrist or hand function, using an electric toothbrush is highly recommended. The bristles on a battery powered toothbrush will spin on their own and ensure your teeth get a proper cleaning and polishing without having to manually move the brush across each surface.

2. Adapt Your Toothbrush Handle

Many individuals with special needs have trouble maintaining a steady grasp on their toothbrush. To complete your oral care routine without issues, consider using an elastic band to connect the brush with your hand. You can also adapt the toothbrush handle by attaching a sponge or rubber ball to help you maintain your grasp with less effort.

3. Explore Floss Alternatives

When the precision and dexterity required to floss becomes a challenge, talk to your dental care team about alternatives. Floss picks with a plastic handle or water flossers that shoot water between your teeth can wash away food debris and prevent a buildup of plaque.

4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

In addition to scheduling bi-annual teeth cleaning appointments, talk to the dentist about your mobility and the impact it may have on your oral care routine. Oral health experts can provide recommendations, show you new techniques, or see you more frequently to help maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

If you’d like expert advice on how you can continue your oral care routine, contact the skilled team at Dentaworks Hawaii in Honolulu. Led by Dr. Douglas Chang, DDS, these professionals have been providing residents across Oahu with top-notch dental care for over 35 years. They accept patients of all ages and offer quality preventative and restorative dentistry services, including routine cleanings, teeth whitening, root canals, and fillings. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 528-1200 or send a message online.