There are a range of brushes that can help people with reduced dexterity who may find it difficult to hold and move a toothbrush.
An electric toothbrush usually has a thick handle and the movement of the bristles does most of the work for the user.
A thick handled brush, or one that is adapted (e.g. by placing a ball or foam over the end), can also make brushing easier.
Some specialised toothbrushes, like the ‘Collis Curve’ or ‘Dr Barman’s Super Brush’, can help a person with limited dexterity or a carer to brush the teeth as more surfaces are brushed at once.
If you wish, you may contact your dentist to discuss what options may be most suitable for your needs. Some options may incur a more significant cost than others.
- Thickened Handle
Toothbrushes can either have a wider handle added or can come with a widened handle in place to make gripping easier.
- Adapted Handle
Toothbrushes can have tennis/squash balls, insulation tubing, putty or handle bar grips adding to them to make the handles larger and the toothbrush longer.
- Electric Toothbrush
Often have thicker, more chunky handles which are easier to grip. They are heavier than a manual toothbrush. The movement of the brush-head can help with finer cleaning movements.
- Dr Barman’s Super Brush
A 3 headed toothbrush with angled bristles. Enables users to simultaneously clean all surfaces to the tooth and gum line
- Collis Curve
A 3 headed curved bristle toothbrush. Enables users to clean all surfaces of the tooth and gum. Available in various sizes including a chemotherapy soft brush, and brush for gum disease.
Useful search engine terms:
- Collis Curve
- Dr Barman’s super brush
- TePe extra grip
- Dext brush
- Toothbrush for arthritis
Whilst some brands are specifically named in this leaflet, we do not endorse these brands. These are only suggestions and similar products may be used/ substituted.
Produced by the Rotherham Community Dental Service. February 2022.
Version: 1.0. Next Revision Due: February 2024.
©The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust 2022. All rights reserved.