Which term is the practice of keeping the mouth clean?

• A. Oral hygiene
• B. Oriented
• C. Osteoporosis
• D. Overbed table

Answer: (A)

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean, including brushing teeth, flossing, and caring for dentures. In a CNA role, clean mouths prevent infections, make eating and speaking more comfortable, and reduce risk of complications like dry mouth or bad breath. Practical care involves helping residents brush or wipe the mouth at least twice a day, keeping lips moisturized, checking for sores or signs of infection, and cleaning dentures or storing them properly when not in use. For residents who can’t participate, use a soft toothbrush or a moistened cloth to gently clean the mouth, and notify the nurse if you notice persistent redness, sores, bleeding, or other issues. The other terms describe things unrelated to mouth care: oriented refers to awareness or cognitive status, osteoporosis is a bone-weakening condition, and an overbed table is equipment used for meals or supplies.