Oral Care: Does Oral Care Have Preventive Roles in Aspiration Pneumonia?

Oral care and oral management are important for preventing aspiration pneumonia, as shown by a growing body of scientific evidence. Oral care helps to prevent aspiration pneumonia by reducing oral bacteria, while oral management helps by improving masticatory and rehabilitating functions. Focused oral care in the acute phase is effective in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia and may help to improve therapeutic outcomes among patients in intensive care. Oral management starts with oral problems being noticed not only by dentists and dental hygienists but also by professionals in other disciplines. The oral health assessment tool is an effective, reproducible, and valid instrument for assessing the oral cavity. In the chronic phase, it is important to understand the characteristics of individual diseases (stroke sequelae, dementia) and take individualized measures in addition to basic oral care techniques. Oral management includes the concept of preventing aspiration pneumonia through function training. Exercises for diminished tongue function and swallowing function help to prevent aspiration pneumonia by improving swallowing function.