Although there is very little scientific research comparing the different brushes, I expect powered versions will give a better clean than a manual brush. Toothbrushes with bigger handles Large handled and large head toothbrush - Image Source: Radius Why You Should Get It: This combination of ice scraper and snow brush allowed us to clear most of the car by standing in just one spot.

Obviously, not all of these will be possible for every body. But specialist tools and alternatives are available that could help overcome some barriers to oral hygiene. For further information about caring for somebody else's teeth, you could read the resources by Every Smile from Health Services Victoria. Getting dental treatment if you have disabilitiesSpecial care dentists can also provide domiciliary care, where they are able to provide care away from their dental practice. They can do some treatments in people's homes. Keep in Mind: The metal handle can get cold as you’re scraping and sweeping, so gloves or mittens are a must. The movement of the electric toothbrush stimulates the gum tissue, increasing blood flow and can increase the healing of the gum tissue. If caring for someone with a strong tongue thrust: try wrapping flannel or gauze around the forefinger. Use this to gently move the tongue.

Making a slit into tennis or squash ball and slide the bottom of the toothbrush handle into the ball. Brushing other people’s teeth presents it’s own challenges. There are useful resources available to help you do this, which I list later on. In addition to difficulty cleaning their teeth and increased risk of some dental conditions, people with disabilities often experience barriers to accessing care. This could range from being unable to physically get to a dental office, to experiencing discomfort during examination from a dentist. Triple Bristle has also been tested here at Electric Teeth. This is another powered toothbrush with a head that covers three tooth surfaces at the same time. Unlike the 30 Second Smile, it only does one arch at the same time. But overall, it does reduce the time taken to clean whilst also giving a more thorough clean than some other options. Electric toothbrushes with suction Why You Should Get It: This ice scraper-and-brush combo has a grip pad that makes holding it especially comfortable.Many people with disabilities are able to use a regular toothbrush but are unable to hold it. In this case, special handles can be added to a regular toothbrush. Specialist handles It is possible to get toothbrushes which have in-built suction to remove saliva and toothpaste from the mouth whilst cleaning. Select a toothbrush that does not cause discomfort. Different people have different sensory triggers. Depending on the person’s individual needs this could mean using or avoiding an electric toothbrush. The material used may also be important, for example selecting silicone over traditional brushes. Magnus Cards have an app designed to help users learn skills. The digital cards combine step by step instructions and visual cues to make experiences easier to navigate. They have partnered with Colgate to provide information about caring for your teeth. We did notice some issues. Because there are tools on both ends, there isn’t a great place to hold the pole with your hands—but it’s long enough that we could still reach every section of the car. The scraper was harder to use than the brush, and we really had to work to clear the windshield of ice. We also note that for the price, it could have more advanced features.