Mouth Care

Mouth Care Tips:

• Use saline solution as a mouth rinse after each meal and at bedtime to keep bacteria from growing. You can use more often if desired. To create a saline solution, mix 1 teaspoon salt + 1 teaspoon baking soda into 1 quart of water
• Increase your fluid in-take as fluids are an important part of your mouth care
• Consume foods high in protein such as dried beans, yogurt, eggs, milk, cheese, peanut butter and poultry
• Clean teeth and gums thoroughly with a soft toothbrush after meals
• If you wear dentures, clean them daily and remove them whenever possible. Loose-fitting dentures, in particular, can irritate the mouth and gums
• See your dentist at least once a year for a cleaning and check-up
• Ask your healthcare provider about “user-friendly” over the counter mouth care choices
• Let your doctor know if you notice white patches on your tongue or other areas of your mouth as this may be a sign of thrush