Suuhooldust

Suuhooldust is the Finnish term for oral care, the set of practices aimed at maintaining the health of the mouth, teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. It encompasses daily hygiene, prevention of oral diseases, and support for functions such as chewing and speaking. In healthcare and home settings, suuhooldust also includes planning and coordination of care to meet individual needs throughout life.

Core elements of suuhooldust include daily oral hygiene routines such as brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, daily interdental cleaning (flossing or interdental brushes), and cleaning the tongue. Additional components can include the use of mouth rinses when appropriate, saliva management for dry mouth, and ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition to support oral health. Regular visits to a dentist or dental hygienist for professional cleaning, assessment, and treatment planning are integral parts of comprehensive suuhooldust.

The practice is especially important for vulnerable groups, including older adults, people with disabilities, and patients in hospitals or long-term care, where oral health can affect nutrition, infection risk, and overall well-being. Poor oral health has been associated with systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, underscoring the role of suuhooldust in holistic health.

Education and training for caregivers and healthcare professionals are essential to implement suuhooldust effectively. In Finland, guidelines and standards from national health authorities and professional bodies inform everyday practice and ensure access to appropriate oral care across care settings.