Investigation of the Effects of Oral Care Methods on Oral Health in Children with Asthma Using Inhalers: A Quasi-Experimental Trial

Objective: This study was conducted to determine the effects of tooth brushing, wiping the mouth with bicarbonate, and rinsing the mouth with water on the oral care of children with asthma using inhalers. Methods: The study used a quasi-experimental quantitative research design with a pretest-posttest control group. The sample of 6-10-year-old asthmatic children was divided into the tooth brushing training group (n=49), the bicarbonate mouth wiping training group (n=49), the water rinsing training group (n=49), and the control group (n=49). Data were collected using a “Sociodemographic Information Form” and an “Oral Assessment Guide”. The oral assessment guide was re-administered 6 weeks after the children had received the education. Results: The findings showed that the gums were better in the group applying the wiping the mouth with bicarbonate method (P=.046), swallowing complaints decreased in the group applying the rinsing the mouth with water method (P=.003), and mucous membranes were better in the group applying the wiping the mouth with bicarbonate method (P=.046). Conclusion: As a result of the study, the method of rinsing the mouth with water was found to be more functional. Accordingly, it is recommended to rinse the mouth with water after using inhaler medication.