Oral health assessments for care homes
An assessment and written care plan for every resident who wants one. For staff: a clear picture of who needs what. For families: peace of mind.
What an Oral Health Care Assessment is
An Oral Health Care Assessment (OHCA) is a structured check of the whole mouth carried out by a registered dentist: teeth, gums, tongue and soft tissues, and any dentures. It includes an oral cancer screen and a review of medical history and medications. It is a health review rather than a treatment, and it flags anything that needs attention — a clean, a filling, a denture reline, signs of infection.
What the home receives
- A written Oral Health Care Plan for each resident assessed, with daily mouth-care guidance staff can follow.
- A summary for the home's nursing lead showing which residents need treatment, which need monitoring, and which are fine.
- A costed, no-obligation treatment proposal for anyone who needs more than daily care.
If treatment is needed
We return, ideally within two weeks, to carry out whatever treatment the resident and family have agreed to. Medical Card (DTSS) and PRSI eligibility are checked in advance. Because several residents are usually seen on one visit, the call-out element of the cost is shared.
Why homes ask us in
Poor oral health in older residents is linked to aspiration pneumonia, poorer nutrition and unrecognised pain that shows up as agitation or refusing food. A baseline assessment gives staff something concrete to work from.
Questions from care home managers
Is the assessment free?
It is free of charge where we assess a minimum number of residents on the same visit, which is the case in most homes. We confirm the number and anything payable before we come out, so there are no surprises. Any treatment recommended afterwards is quoted separately, with no obligation.
How long do you need per resident?
About 15 to 20 minutes each. We can see most of a home's residents across one or two days.
Do residents need to leave their room?
No. We go to the resident — bed, chair or day room, whatever suits them.
Who receives the care plan?
The resident, their next of kin where appropriate, and the home's nursing staff. It includes daily care advice staff can follow.
What if a resident lacks capacity to consent?
We follow the home's consent process and the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. We'll discuss with staff and family before any examination.
Ready to arrange a visit?
Tell us a little about the patient and where they are. We'll call you back to plan the visit and answer any questions.