Oral Complication

This study aims to examine the effects of different oral care methods on oral health in patients receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) in the intensive care unit. A randomized controlled experimental design will be employed, with three groups: Control Group - patients receiving only the standard chlorhexidine oral care kit; Electric Toothbrush Group - patients receiving the chlorhexidine kit in combination with an electric toothbrush and toothpaste; and Manual Toothbrush Group - patients receiving the chlorhexidine kit along with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste. Data collection tools will include the Patient Demographic Information Form, Oral Assessment Guide, saliva pH measurement, and salivation assessment using the Schirmer Tear Test Strip. The study is designed to compare the effects of different oral care methods on the oral health of patients receiving NIMV and to identify the most effective method.

On average, the dental condition of elderly people is poor due to various reasons. The importance of oral health maintenance of the ageing population has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), as oral health plays a key role in reaching the global goal of the "Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021-2030". New measures for maintaining good oral health are welcome. The use of antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) and antibacterial blue light (aBL) has been studied and found to reduce the amount of plaque in the mouth. The Lumoral device is a CE-marked home medical device combining aPDT and aBL, and it is effective in reducing the development of plaque and harmful bacteria in the plaque. The device has also been shown to be easy and safe to use. In this study, a combination of regular dental appointments with the importance of enhanced dental self-care, will be tested as one regional solution for reaching the global goal set by WHO.