A Guide to Good Oral Health for Persons with Special Needs continued Adapting a Toothbrush Don't give up on brushing if the person is unable to hold a brush. Here are six suggestions and possible methods to modify a toothbrush. Note that even when an individual cannot manipulate a regular toothbrush, they may be able to brush their teeth on their own by using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush. Consider attaching the toothbrush to an individual's hand by using a wide elastic band (taking care that the band is tight enough to secure the toothbrush but loose enough so that it does not constrict circulation). Depending on the composition of the toothbrush, bending a brush handle to create a more conducive angle is sometimes possible by running very hot water over handle (not the brushhead) of the toothbrush, softening the plastic. If an individual cannot raise his or her hand or arm, the toothbrush handle can be lengthened by attaching extenders such as a ruler, a tongue depressor, or a wooden spoon. If an individual possesses only limited grasping ability, enlarge the toothbrush handle by inserting it into a sponge, a rubber ball, or a bicycle handle grip. The thicker surface can enable them to hold it in their hand and brush on their own. If an individual cannot hold his or her mouth open for the extended period of time to brush, consider trying a mouth prop. Examples of a mouth prop include three or four tongue depressors taped together, a rolled-up moistened washcloth, or a sterilized rubber doorstop.   << Previous Page              Next Page >>             Return to main page