Oral health in patients with acquired brain injury.

Abstract

People with acquired brain injury, including stroke and traumatic brain injury, are at increased risk of developing oral health problems, which can occur at any stage from acute admission through rehabilitation and longer-term care. Contributing factors include dysphagia, cognitive impairment, reduced awareness, reliance on others for oral care, altered salivation and oro-motor impairments such as limited mouth opening. Individuals are susceptible to oral disease, including fungal infections, caries and periodontal disease, which can cause pain, infection and reduced quality of life. Poor oral hygiene is also associated with healthcare-associated pneumonia, a significant risk following acquired brain injury. Oral health should remain a clinical priority for neurologists and healthcare teams across rehabilitation and community settings. Oral health management is, therefore, a shared multidisciplinary responsibility to promote recovery and rehabilitation. We provide practical guidance on assessing oral health risks, supporting daily mouth care, managing common oral problems and ensuring timely referral to dental services.