A stroke victim may not be able to control muscles that affect the right, left or both sides of the body, including the mouth and tongue.

SIDE EFFECTS:



• Difficulty with speech, chewing and swallowing
• Food collecting on the inside of the cheeks Choking
• Food and liquids leaking from the mouth
• Drooling
• Poorly fitting or functioning dentures
• Greater risk of gum disease and tooth decay
• Dry mouth and dry/cracked lips
   

HELPFUL TIPS:

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• Clear the mouth of food as food and bacteria that stay in the mouth can lead to infection.
• Brush teeth twice a day. (Add a tennis ball or bicycle grip to the toothbrush if necessary.)
• If swallowing is difficult, do not use toothpaste while brushing.
• Check the mouth for sores or white patches; if found a dental exam is indicated.
• Simplify all daily oral care tasks, such as using an electric toothbrush.
• Use dry mouth products recommended by your dentist or pharmacist.
• Clean debris from the mouth by wiping with a soft, moist cloth or gauze to prevent infections and help dry, cracked lips.
• Use a water-based lip moisturizer.
• Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings.
   

DENTURE CARE:



• ​Remove dentures during rest periods; soak dentures in water overnight with a cleaning tablet.
• Every time dentures are removed, clean and brush them with a denture brush.
• Dentures should always be labeled with the residentts name; your dentist can help.