Smiles fading: The challenge of dental care in care homes

Healthwatch Leicester and Healthwatch Leicestershire undertook a survey of local care home managers to understand the state of dental care for residents.  They spoke to 13 people, representing 328 residents.

There is a need for dentists who do annual visits to care homes for check-ups. Many residents are not registered with an NHS dentist. Private dental care is often the only option, which is financially unviable for many.

A roaming dentist or hygienist who visits every 6–12 months would be invaluable.  Residents often only see a dentist when an urgent issue arises. Some homes rely on hospital dentists in severe cases.

Oral health should be treated with the same priority as eye and hearing tests.  Care homes lack dental professionals who understand the challenges for residents with dementia and disabilities.  Staff assist with oral hygiene, but this does not replace professional care.

Staff are more trained now, but need more support from professionals. Some care homes have oral health training programmes.  However, they are not trained dental professionals and need specialist support.

Many care homes rely on families to arrange and transport residents to dental appointments.