Gentle Tooth Decay Care for Older Adults
Tooth decay can progress quickly in older adults, especially with dry mouth, reduced dexterity, and existing dental work. We provide supportive, dignity-first mobile dental care for aged care residents across Perth, focusing on comfort, prevention, and practical treatment options.
What Is Tooth Decay and How Does It Start?
Tooth decay (also called dental caries) occurs when plaque bacteria feed on sugars and produce acid that weakens the tooth surface. Over time, this can form a cavity and lead to pain, infection, or tooth breakdown if not managed early.
In aged care settings, decay can be harder to spot and may progress around existing fillings, crowns, or along the gumline. Our team focuses on early detection and sensible treatment planning, with options that match the resident’s overall health, comfort, and daily care routine.
Who We Help
We support older adults who are at higher risk of tooth decay and may find it difficult to attend a traditional dental clinic.
- Aged care residents who need on-site dental care coordinated with facility staff
- Older adults at home who want preventative care and early treatment before pain begins
- People with dry mouth due to medications, increasing the risk of rapid decay
- Residents with dementia where discomfort may show as behaviour changes
- Carers and families seeking clear guidance and ongoing oral health support
Why Address Tooth Decay Early?
Early care can reduce pain, prevent infection, and help residents keep eating comfortably. We take a practical approach that prioritises comfort and function, while supporting long-term oral health.
- Identify decay early before it becomes painful
- Reduce the risk of swelling, infection, or abscess
- Support comfortable eating and better daily wellbeing
- Minimise disruption with on-site mobile appointments
- Clear plan for carers, families, and facility staff
- Prevent repeat issues around crowns, fillings, and bridges
- Comfort-focused treatment options suited to older adults
- Ongoing prevention support to reduce future decay
Our Tooth Decay Care Process
1. Book a Visit
Contact our team to arrange a convenient time. We coordinate directly with families, carers, or aged care staff.
2. Mobile Team Arrives
Our dental team visits the aged care facility or home with all equipment required for a safe check-up.
3. Assess and Diagnose
We check the teeth, gums, and existing work for signs of decay, with digital X-rays when needed.
4. Treatment Plan & Comfort
We explain the findings and suitable options. Where appropriate, we may recommend fluoride, a filling, or other comfort-focused care.
5. Follo-Up and Prevention
We provide simple prevention guidance for carers, plus a clear plan to help reduce future decay risk.
How Does Mobile Dentistry Work?
When visiting a traditional dental clinic isn’t possible, our fully equipped mobile dentistry unit brings professional care directly to your nursing home or aged care facility.
We carry everything needed to provide safe, hygienic, and effective treatment on-site, including:
- A dental light for clear visibility during procedures
- A reclining dental chair for patient comfort
- A digital X-ray machine to support accurate diagnosis
- A portable dental unit with all essential tools
- A compressor system for water and air supply
- High and low volume suction to maintain a clean treatment area
With this specialised equipment, our mobile dental service provides the same standard of care you’d expect in a traditional practice. From assessments and prevention through to treatment planning, we deliver a safe and convenient solution from the comfort of your location.
Concerned About Tooth Decay? Speak With Our Team
- Give Us a Call
- (08) 6558 1889
Worried a resident or loved one may have tooth decay, sensitivity, or ongoing dental discomfort? We provide gentle mobile dental assessments and practical treatment planning across Perth, with care delivered on-site in aged care facilities or at home.
Want to Book an Appointment or Need More Info?
For a skilled mobile dentist who supports older adults with a complete range of in-home and on-site dental services, contact our caring team today to ask questions or arrange a visit.
Ready to Address Tooth Decay Early?
If you’ve noticed discomfort, sensitivity, or changes in eating, call us or send an enquiry. We’re here to help.
We Answer Your FAQs
Tooth decay may present as sensitivity, pain when eating or drinking, visible dark spots, or food getting stuck in a tooth. In some residents, the signs can be subtle and show up as changes in eating habits, sleep, or behaviour.
Common factors include dry mouth from medications, reduced ability to brush effectively, a preference for softer foods, and existing dental work that can trap plaque. Regular checks help detect problems early.
Not always. Some early decay can be managed with prevention strategies such as fluoride, improved cleaning support, and diet adjustments. If a cavity is more advanced, a filling or other treatment may be recommended based on comfort and suitability.
You can book an appointment by calling us on (08) 6558 1889, emailing info@agedcaredentistry.com.au, or by filling out our online contact form. Our friendly team will guide you through the booking process and discuss your specific needs.
It depends on what we find. Some residents only need an assessment and prevention plan, while others may need follow-up treatment. We aim to keep visits efficient and minimise disruption to daily routines.
Yes. Our mobile dental team visits aged care homes and private residences across Perth. We coordinate with staff and families to make the process as smooth as possible.
We take a calm, gentle approach and work with carers to support communication and comfort. Where appropriate, we can break care into smaller steps and focus on what is most important for health, comfort, and function.