How to care for the teeth and dentures of someone with dementia?

My mum wears dentures and has been refusing to let me clean her mouth. I'm afraid she'll get sores or infections, but I don't know how to do it without her getting angry. How should I manage this?

It's one of the most overlooked and, at the same time, most important tasks. Feeling caught between the fear of infection and her refusal is exhausting — and there are ways to make this moment less confrontational for both of you.

Why it happens

With dementia, the person may forget to brush their teeth, not understand what they are being asked to do, or perceive mouth hygiene as invasive. But an uncared-for mouth causes pain, sores, infections, and difficulty eating — which often manifest as food refusal or agitation without apparent cause.

Practical strategies

• Brush teeth twice a day, with a soft brush, in a calm environment.
• Remove dentures at night, clean them, and store them in water; check that they fit well.
• Inspect gums and tongue for sores, redness, or mouth ulcers.
• Use simple language and gestures, demonstrating on yourself first.
• Choose the time of day when she is most relaxed.

What NOT to do

• Do not force a closed mouth or insist during a moment of agitation.
• Do not leave dentures that are tight or causing pain without checking them.

When to seek professional help

If there are sores, pain, persistent bad breath, or refusal to eat, book a dental appointment. Your GP can guide you and indicate available support. Caring for the mouth improves eating and comfort.

"I realised she wasn't refusing food out of stubbornness — she had a sore on her gum from her denture. Once her mouth was treated, she started eating well again." — Anonymous carer