Oral health

REFRESHER

This eLearning course will improve your understanding of oral health and your role as a care worker in supporting individuals with their daily personal care.

Overview

Oral health has a big impact on our quality of life. We express ourselves by talking or smiling. We can take immense enjoyment from what we eat or drink and pride in the state of our teeth and gums.

These things are just as important for people living in care homes, so good oral health care must not stop once a person enters a home. Older people are now more likely to retain their teeth than previous generations, and they need daily care and regular check-ups.

Skills for Care has now included oral health within its recommended ‘Statutory and Mandatory Training’ and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has linked it to their fundamental standards and will be looking for evidence during inspections.

Topics Covered

Understanding the importance of oral health and your role as a care worker.
Know about the causes of poor oral health.
Know how to make an oral health needs assessment using a dedicated assessment tool.
Recognise when to escalate a problem.
PPE and waste disposal.