The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) predicts that by the year 2023, the elderly population will constitute 20.66% of the total population of Thailand. It is estimated that by 2035, this figure will rise to 28.55%. The majority of the elderly fall into the socially active group at 97.15%, followed by homebound seniors at 2.23%, and bedridden seniors at a rate of 0.61%. Both elderly and dependent individuals are entitled to health care, particularly health promotion and disease prevention services, and medical rehabilitation services.

     Although bedridden seniors account for only 0.61% of the population, they still require care. Major issues for the elderly and bedridden patients include problems with swallowing and oral health, which necessitate tooth brushing while lying down. Some patients may require the assistance of three nurses; one to help open the patient's mouth, one to brush the teeth, and another to hold a tube to suction toothpaste foam and saliva to prevent the patient from choking on toothpaste foam that could flow down the throat, which can be dangerous for the patient and challenging for the caregivers.

     Currently, a Thai dental team from Inno-Age Laboratory Co., Ltd. has invented an INNO-AGE toothbrush with a suction tube system and toothpaste foam to assist in the oral health care of elderly and bedridden patients who need to brush their teeth while lying down. The toothbrush is easy to use, safe, does not require mouth rinsing after brushing, and reduces the risk of lung infections from choking during tooth brushing.

     The distinctive feature of this innovative toothbrush with a suction tube system is its design, where the toothbrush handle has a tube connected to a sputum suction device used in hospitals or homes. This allows for the suction of liquid and foam while brushing teeth, reducing the chance of choking. The brush has just the right amount of soft bristles, which help in quick plaque removal. Its small-sized toothbrush head with smooth edges minimizes impact, reducing the cause of wounds. The brush can reach the farthest molars, even in narrow spaces, ensuring complete cleanliness of teeth. It also features an easy-grip handle suitable for relatives or nurses assisting with brushing.

     In addition, the research team has developed a toothpaste foam to be used in conjunction with the suction tube toothbrush system. The toothpaste is made from over 96% natural ingredients and includes extracts from organic Moringa oleifera. After brushing, the foam dissolves into droplets, which are easily removed by the suction tube toothbrush without the need for water rinsing. Any residual foam or water in the mouth can be safely swallowed. It is gentle on the mouth, does not cause a burning sensation while brushing, and reduces irritation. It leaves no white residue from chemical substances, contains fluoride to prevent tooth decay, and includes CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride) as an antibacterial component to take care of gum problems. This is suitable for the elderly or those in a dependent state, hospital patients in critical wards, unconscious patients, those with mouth sensitivity, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or head and neck radiation therapy, and women entering the golden age.

     When the elderly or dependent patients receive regular tooth brushing, it helps keep the mouth clean and reduces the risk of life-threatening lung infections.

Data updated on March 27, 2023
Source: National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
Tel. +66 2564 8000