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Q: I have severe arthritis in both hands. Any suggestions for keeping
my teeth clean?
A: Many older Americans suffer from diminishing dexterity that
makes performing everyday tasks difficult. And many more may have
a temporary impediment, like a cast or tennis elbow, that can make
everyday actions like brushing and flossing your teeth a challenge.
You don't want your oral health to suffer because of it. Here are
some steps you can take at home to make your oral health tasks
more manageable:
- Make your toothbrush handle easier to grip by expanding its
size with a sponge, inserting the handle into a slit-open rubber
ball or into a bicycle handle grip. Or wrap an elastic bandage
or adhesive tape around the handle.
- Lengthen the toothbrush handle by tying a piece of wood or
plastic, like a ruler, a Popsicle stick or a tongue depressor
to it.
- An electric toothbrush, which will have a thicker grip and
does much of the brushing work for you, might be the answer.
- Try buying one of the many over-the-counter devices that make
flossing easier.
Talk with your dentist about ways to get around a permanent or temporary
disability and care for your teeth and mouth.
October 12, 2009
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