Toothbrushing Help for People with Disability

Toothbrushing can be difficult for many different reasons. For people with disability, the barrier may be physical, sensory, cognitive, emotional, behavioural, or related to the support routine around them.

Useful help starts with identifying the real reason brushing is hard.

Common barriers to brushing

• Difficulty holding or moving a standard toothbrush
• Fatigue or low motivation at brushing time
• Sensory discomfort with bristles, vibration, taste or foam
• Difficulty following a multi-step routine
• Anxiety around mouth care
• Needing a carer to help safely and consistently

Make the routine easier to repeat

Small improvements can matter: keeping products in the same place, using a predictable time of day, simplifying the number of steps, and choosing a brushing product that reduces difficult movements.

For some people, a visual routine, carer prompt, adaptive grip, electric toothbrush or mouthpiece-style brushing option may help. The right answer depends on the person.

Arco as one support option

Arco Brush Starter Kit is designed for people looking for a simpler supported brushing routine. Its automatic sonic handle and full-mouth mouthpiece may reduce the need for precise brushing movement compared with traditional toothbrushing.

Arco does not replace dental care, and it may not suit every person. Comfort, tolerance and support needs should be considered before ordering.

Need NDIS purchase information?

If the purchase may be connected to an NDIS plan, read the NDIS information page and check with the participant's plan manager or support coordinator first.

For questions, contact Arco.