Proper oral hygiene is a vital component of resident care, promoting oral health, comfort, and overall well-being. Skill 7 — Brushing a Resident’s Dentures is essential for preventing oral infections, irritation, and bad odor, while demonstrating competence during the CNA Skills Exam.
Supplies Needed for Denture Care
Gather all necessary materials before beginning the procedure:
- Gloves
- Denture brush
- Denture toothpaste (if available)
- Dentures
- Denture cup and/or emesis basin
- Denture cleansing tablet (optional)
- Oral swab
- Cup of water
- Clothing protector or towel
- Barrier (paper towel)
- Sink liner (washcloth or paper towel)
- Linen bag or hamper
Having all supplies ready ensures a safe and efficient procedure.
Routine Pre-Procedure Steps
Before brushing dentures, complete the following:
- Knock on the resident’s door
- Perform hand hygiene
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident
- Provide privacy with a curtain or door
- Maintain professional, courteous communication
- Explain the denture care procedure to the resident
These steps enhance resident comfort, trust, and safety.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Brushing Dentures
1. Prepare the Resident
- Put on gloves
- Place all supplies on a clean barrier
- Use a clothing protector to prevent soiling
- Line the sink with a washcloth or paper towel to prevent denture damage
2. Remove and Inspect Dentures
- Carefully remove dentures from the resident’s mouth or denture cup
- Place dentures in a denture cup or emesis basin
- Handle dentures gently to avoid breakage or contamination
3. Brush the Dentures
- Wet the denture brush
- Apply denture toothpaste if available; water alone is acceptable
- Brush all inner, outer, and chewing surfaces thoroughly
- Rinse dentures with clean, cool water
- Place dentures on a clean barrier or back in the emesis basin
4. Clean Denture Cup
- Rinse the denture cup and return dentures to the rinsed cup
- Optional: add a denture cleansing tablet for soaking
5. Provide Oral Care for the Resident
- Wet an oral swab and gently clean the resident’s gums, tongue, and inner cheeks
- Allow the resident to rinse and spit into the emesis basin
- Return dentures to the resident if desired
- Wipe the resident’s mouth and remove the clothing protector
6. Clean and Store Equipment
- Rinse denture brush and emesis basin
- Return supplies to storage
- Discard protective lining appropriately
- Remove gloves turning them inside out
Post-Procedure Steps
- Perform hand hygiene
- Check resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed
- Ensure the bed is low and locked, and brakes are checked
- Place call light or signaling device within reach
- Open the door and privacy curtain
- Document and report any oral issues, discomfort, or unusual findings
Tips and Common Mistakes in Denture Care
- Avoid hot water, which can warp dentures
- Never drop or handle dentures roughly
- Do not reuse soiled water for rinsing
- Always explain the steps to the resident to reduce anxiety
- Ensure all surfaces of dentures are cleaned to prevent odor and plaque buildup
Practicing these steps ensures resident safety, oral hygiene, and CNA exam success.
Why Brushing Dentures Is Critical for CNAs
Proper denture care:
- Promotes oral hygiene and prevents infections
- Increases resident comfort and confidence
- Demonstrates clinical competence during the CNA Skills Exam
- Supports long-term oral and overall health
Mastery of this skill reflects professionalism and enhances resident quality of life.
For further guidance on oral care for older adults, visit the American Dental Association Oral Health for Seniors:
https://www.ada.org/resources/community-initiatives/elders