A Randomized Clinical Trial of Oral Health Promotion Interventions Among Patients After Stroke

A Randomized Clinical Trial of Oral Health Promotion Interventions Among Patients Following Stroke

The main aim of this oral health intervention project is to compare the effect of providing 1) professional oral hygiene instruction alone versus 2) professional oral hygiene instruction plus adjunctive Chlorhexidine mouth rinse versus 3) professional oral hygiene instruction plus adjunctive assisted tooth brushing and Chlorhexidine mouth rinse, on the oral health condition, the general health condition and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with stroke who are receiving hospital-based rehabilitation. An additional aim is to assess potential longer term oral intervention-related health and HRQoL outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 50 years and over
• Moderate to severe stroke (Barthel Index >/= 70)
• Admitted to Rehabilitation Unit within 7 days

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with naso-gastric feeding tube
• Edentulous patients
• Patients with communication difficulties