Nursing & Oral Health in Long-Term Care: Issue Brief

April 2022

NNPBC and the BC Dental Hygienists’ Association released a joint issue brief calling for stronger access to oral health care for people living in long-term care.

Oral health is closely connected to overall health, comfort and quality of life. Without appropriate care, residents may experience pain, difficulty eating and speaking, and increased risks related to conditions such as aspiration pneumonia, heart disease, diabetes and inflammatory disease.

Nurses understand the importance of oral care and play a central role in coordinating and supporting residents’ health. However, comprehensive oral care requires the specialized knowledge and skills of oral health professionals. The brief calls for nurses and dental hygienists to work together as part of the long-term care team so residents receive the right care from the right provider.

Recommendations for improving oral care

NNPBC and the BC Dental Hygienists’ Association called for:

• Oral care to be recognized and prioritized as essential care
• Dental hygienists to be included as part of interprofessional long-term care teams
• Long-term care facilities to have an appropriate mix of health professionals
• Greater opportunities for nurses, dental hygienists and other care providers to learn about and collaborate across their respective roles
• Dental hygienists to help develop oral health programs, train direct care staff and communicate with residents’ families
• All residents to have equitable access to basic oral care supplies, including toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste

A collaborative approach can improve residents’ comfort and health, reduce preventable oral health problems and better support nurses and other members of the care team.