Adaptive Toothbrush Assessment Guide for OTs

Occupational therapists often see the practical part of oral care: how brushing happens in the real bathroom, care routine, supported living environment, school routine or family routine.

An adaptive toothbrush may be worth considering when a client can own a toothbrush, but the daily task is still difficult to start, complete or repeat consistently.

Start with the functional barrier

The useful question is not simply whether the person needs a different toothbrush. It is what part of the routine is breaking down.

• Grip strength, hand control or fine motor movement
• Shoulder, elbow or wrist movement needed for brushing angles
• Sequencing, attention, timing or task completion
• Fatigue, endurance or low tolerance at brushing time
• Sensory response to mouth contact, vibration, taste or foam
• Level of prompting, supervision or hands-on carer support

Where Arco may fit

Arco Brush Starter Kit combines a sonic toothbrush handle with a flexible full-mouth mouthpiece. It may be relevant where traditional toothbrushing is difficult because of movement, coordination, routine consistency or carer-supported brushing barriers.

It does not replace dental advice, dental check-ups, or an individual OT or clinical assessment. It is one product option to consider within a wider oral-care support plan.

Useful OT discussion prompts

Before recommending, documenting or supporting purchase, consider who will set up the brush, whether the client is likely to tolerate the mouthpiece, how the product will be cleaned and charged, and whether replacement mouthpieces can be organised over time.

For product details, see the OT information page or practitioner pack.

NDIS and purchase context

Arco cannot approve or guarantee NDIS funding. If a purchase may relate to an NDIS plan, the participant, family, support coordinator, plan manager or relevant professional should check whether the product fits the person's goals, needs, budget and plan rules before ordering.

Read NDIS information or contact Arco for product and invoice/manual process questions.