Good oral health is essential for overall wellbeing, yet people with additional needs often require extra support to maintain it. This oral care training course helps healthcare professionals, nurses, and care staff understand the importance of mouth care and how to provide it effectively. By recognising when someone needs assistance or referral to a dental team, carers can prevent discomfort, reduce the risk of dental disease, and support better nutrition and quality of life.

The course emphasises that while you are not expected to diagnose oral health problems, you play a vital role in identifying concerns early and ensuring individuals receive the right support. With practical guidance on daily mouth care, recognising signs of dental disease, and conducting simple mouth checks, this training equips learners with the confidence to deliver safe and compassionate care.

Why Oral Care Training for People with Additional Needs Matters

People with additional needs may face barriers to maintaining their own oral hygiene, making professional support essential. Without effective oral care, individuals are at greater risk of pain, infection, and poor nutrition. This course ensures carers and healthcare staff understand their responsibilities, apply best practice, and know when to escalate concerns to a dental professional.

Key Benefits of Oral Care Training

• Understand why oral health is vital for overall wellbeing.
• Learn the principles of basic mouth care.
• Recognise when someone requires assistance with oral hygiene.
• Identify the main causes of dental disease.
• Conduct a simple mouth check to spot potential issues.
• Report oral health concerns to the appropriate professional.
• Support individuals who need carers or nurses to clean their mouth for them.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the importance of oral care for people with additional needs.
• Provide safe and effective daily mouth care.
• Recognise when an individual requires support or referral.
• Identify causes of dental disease and how to prevent them.
• Carry out a mouth check and report concerns appropriately.

Who Should Take This Course

• Nurses and healthcare assistants.
• Care staff in residential or community settings.
• Support workers assisting people with additional needs.
• Anyone responsible for promoting oral health in care environments.