How In-Home Dental Care Works

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for overall health, especially as we age. However, many seniors face challenges in accessing dental care, such as transportation issues or mobility problems. In-home dental care, or “at-home” dental care, provides a solution by bringing dental professionals and equipment directly to the patient’s home. 

Read on to know how in-home dental care works, the services in-home dental care can provide, and how to prepare for an in-home dental care appointment.

The Process of In-Home Dental Care

The process of in-home dental care typically begins with completing an online registration and scheduling an appointment with a dental provider who offers in-home services. During the scheduling process, the provider will ask questions about the patient’s dental history and any concerns they may have. This information helps the provider determine the equipment and supplies they will need to bring to the appointment. 

On the day of the appointment, the dental professional will arrive at the patient’s home with all the necessary equipment and supplies. (The dental team can also visit assisted living communities, memory care facilities and other locations.) They will set up a portable dental chair, light, and any other instruments needed for the procedures. The dental professional will then perform a routine dental exam, which involves checking the patient’s teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, infection, or other dental issues. 

After the exam, the dental professional will clean the patient’s teeth, removing any plaque or tartar buildup. They may also polish the teeth to remove surface stains and improve their appearance. If the patient needs any additional dental procedures, such as a filling, dentures, bridges, or a root canal, the dental professional will perform those as well.

Services Offered in In-Home Dental Care

Dental professionals who offer in-home care are equipped with portable dental chairs, x-rays, and instruments, which allow them to provide comprehensive dental care in a patient’s home. This means that any services typically provided by a dental office, such as cleanings, denture work, fillings, x-rays, crown and bridge work, extractions, root canals, night guards, and any other dental procedures that are deemed clinically necessary. In-home dental care can therefore provide any dental services that are needed by those who cannot make it into a dental office.

Preparing for an In-Home Dental Care Appointment

Seniors who are preparing for an in-home dental care appointment can take a few steps to ensure a smooth and successful experience. First, they should make sure their home is prepared for the dental professional’s visit. This may involve clearing a space for the dental chair and light and ensuring that there is an electrical outlet nearby for the dental equipment. 

Seniors should also make sure they are comfortable during the appointment. They may want to wear comfortable clothing that allows the dental professional to access their mouth easily. They should also let the dental professional know if they have any physical limitations or medical conditions that may affect the appointment. 

Finally, seniors should be prepared to discuss their dental history and any concerns they may have with the dental professional. By providing as much information as possible, seniors can help the dental professional tailor the appointment to their specific needs and address any issues that may be affecting their oral health. 

If you’re looking for in-home dental care, reach out to the specialists at Enable Dental. We will make certain that you or your elderly loved one has the best oral hygiene care possible—all from the comfort of their own home! Call us for more information or to book an appointment.