DS, 16, gingivitis through poor toothbrushing

[mckenzie]

DS, 16, has dyspraxia and Aspergers. Not severely in either case (main stream school, extra time in exams)

Dentist yesterday told us that he has gingivitis (or the beginning of it) from not brushing his teeth properly and for long enough.
I tried last night to again show him how to clean his teeth properly, with a battery operated tooth brush, but he's not getting it.

He says he cant hold his lips up and away from his teeth and he can’t move his tongue out of the way to get to the inside of the teeth.

Any tips/help very gratefully received. I saw the amount of blood that was in the sink after this morning's attempt and I'm scared for him.

Bump

I would make an appointment with the hygienist so they can give a really thorough clean.
Also google periodontal disease images so he can see the consequences of not brushing.

There are various brushes he can use, a tufty brush & also floss.

It's massively important that the bacterial is removed every 12-24 hrs, so if I were you, I'd clean them myself.

Thanks Oxfordblue.
I wondered why the dentist didn’t suggest the hygienist.
I’ve shown him the images online and he is honestly doing a better job, albeit only if we stand over him and step in to help with the tricky bits.

He’s back to college after Easter (away Monday to Friday) and I want to make sure he’s cracked this by then.

I’ll definitely get the tufty brush.
Thanks for the advise.

A Collis Curve toothbrush can help clean the gumline and is less of a sensory assault.

www.colliscurve.co.uk/

Maybe he could use both toothbrushes, the CC may get the bits he's missing with the electric one.

Thanks for the suggestion BT.
Toothbrushes purchased. Fingers crossed.