Guide outlines safe dental care practices for individuals with upper limb difference, highlighting significant overlooked needs.
This guide was created for people with an upper limb difference, on one side, with one remaining working arm or hand. Many people with an upper limb difference use their teeth to help with everyday tasks. Over time, this can damage teeth and make brushing harder. Researchers asked people around the world about their experiences. Many said they had never been given advice about how to care for their teeth safely[1]. Important Findings Research shows[1]: • Many people use their teeth to help with everyday tasks. • Adults with an upper limb difference are more likely to chip or damage their teeth. • Many amputees do not realise how often they use their teeth. • Brushing teeth can be tiring or painful because one arm does most of the work.
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Parkin et al. (2026) studied this question.
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