Can Bad Dental Hygiene Indicate Nursing Home Neglect?

 Posted on February 06, 2024 in Neglect

Maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for overall health and well-being, especially for older adults residing in nursing home facilities. Sadly, neglect and poor care are prevalent concerns in nursing homes, and poor dental hygiene can be an indicator of neglect. If your loved one is suffering from bad dental hygiene in their nursing home and you believe neglect may be to blame, contact an aggressive lawyer in Illinois to pursue the legal remedies that may be available to them at this time.

The Importance of Dental Hygiene in Nursing Homes 

Proper dental care is essential for everyone but becomes even more critical for older adults. Neglecting dental hygiene can lead to various oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and infections. These issues can cause pain, difficulty eating, and even impact overall health. Nursing homes are responsible for ensuring that residents receive proper dental care to maintain their oral health and quality of life.

Signs of Dental Neglect

• Poor oral hygiene practices – Neglected residents may have dirty teeth, bad breath, or signs of plaque buildup. Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing can contribute to these issues. 

• Untreated dental problems – Neglected residents may have untreated cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues. Persistent pain, swelling, or bleeding gums are signs that dental problems are being ignored. 

• Lack of dental appointments – Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health. If residents are not receiving routine dental care, it may indicate neglect.

• Inadequate denture care – Residents who wear dentures should have them cleaned and properly fitted. Neglect can be indicated if dentures are dirty, ill-fitting, or causing discomfort. 

• Malnutrition or weight loss – Difficulty chewing or eating due to dental pain or poor oral health can lead to malnutrition or weight loss. If residents are experiencing these issues, it may suggest neglect in providing proper dental care.

In nursing home neglect cases, you will need to document relevant evidence, such as taking photos or videos showing the signs of dental neglect, such as untreated dental problems or poor denture care. Keep a record of conversations or complaints made to the nursing home staff. 

Contact Our Chicago, IL Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer

Bad dental hygiene in nursing homes can signify neglect and poor care. If you are concerned with the state of your loved one’s dental health and you believe neglect could be to blame, contact the experienced Cook County, IL nursing home neglect attorneys with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.