Oral Health and Hygiene for Those Who Do Not Eat by Mouth

A discussion of the unique oral health challenges faced by individuals who rely on enteral (tube) feeding. While tube feeding can reduce the risk of dental caries due to the absence of oral carbohydrate intake, it may lead to other issues such as increased calculus (tartar) buildup, oral hypersensitivity, and a higher risk of aspiration pneumonia. This resource emphasizes the importance of maintaining regular oral hygiene practices, including professional dental cleanings and at-home care, to mitigate these risks and promote overall oral health in tube-fed individuals.