This article explains how to clean a mouth with a soft cloth or a soft round sponge.

• Use this for a person who is very ill or in palliative or end-of-life care.
• Cleaning removes food and germs. It helps the person feel better.
• A surround toothbrush can also help if the person cannot open their mouth well.

Steps

1. Put on new disposable gloves.
2. Wet the soft cloth or sponge.
3. Ask permission. Tell the person you will clean their teeth and gums.
4. Wet the lips and cheeks first. This makes it easier to move the cloth.
5. Gently wipe the teeth, gums and mouth to remove food and plaque. Be gentle but clean as well as you can.