Semi-Automated Oral Hygiene System for Immobilized Patients

Abstract

Limited mobility, elevated risk of infection, and caregiver burden hinder oral hygiene maintenance in immobilized patients. Older patients, victims of trauma, and neurologically impaired patients are most likely to have difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene and become susceptible to infections, gingivitis, and plaque buildup. Existing automated systems do not have built-in features like suction, toothpaste dispensing, brushing, and flossing. Manual care, on the other hand, is time-consuming and physically taxing for caregivers. To address these challenges, this study proposes a semi-automated oral hygiene system that integrates suction, automated toothpaste delivery, brushing, and flossing in a unified design. Through the integration of automated suction, toothpaste dispensing, brushing, and flossing, the system provides thorough hygiene with minimal physical labor. Functionality and safety are assured by a rigorous design process involving patient and carer assessments, conceptual development, prototype integration, and clinical validation. The technology provides a feasible solution to long-term care environments by improving patient well-being and reducing carer stress, and clinical trials are underway to maximize its impact in home and institutional environments. Future prospects include telemonitoring and AI-driven customisation.