Oral Health Care Training Module

Oral health has a profound impact on the overall health, nutrition, comfort and dignity of aged care residents. Despite this, it remains one of the most frequently cited areas of concern in aged care audits. This training module builds staff competency in daily oral care, assessment, and escalation to dental services.

Published

May 29, 2026

Oral Health Care Training Module for Aged Care Workers

Oral health is a key indicator of general health and wellbeing in older people, yet it remains one of the most commonly under-resourced areas of care in Australian aged care. Poor oral hygiene is linked to aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, pain and social withdrawal. Under the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, providers are obligated to deliver routine oral health care and facilitate access to dental services. This module builds the essential skills your team needs.

What This Training Covers

The link between oral health and systemic health in older people
Routine oral hygiene — technique, frequency and products
Denture care — cleaning, storage and fit assessment
Oral health assessment — what to look for and how to document it
Assisting consumers who resist oral care — approaches and strategies
Recognising signs of oral pain, infection, dry mouth and oral cancer
Referral pathways to dental services — accessing the Medicare CDBS
Nutrition and hydration implications of poor oral health

Key Learning Outcomes

Perform safe, effective daily oral hygiene for consumers with and without natural teeth
Clean and store dentures correctly and identify poor fit or damage
Complete a basic oral health assessment and document findings
Recognise signs that warrant escalation to a dental or medical professional
Apply person-centred strategies when a consumer declines oral care

Who Should Complete This Training

All PCAs and support staff involved in personal care. RNs and care managers should be familiar with oral health assessment and the referral pathway to dental services. This is a mandatory training area under Standard 5 and an area of known audit risk.

Alignment to the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards

Aligned to Standard 5 (Clinical Care) — oral health is explicitly identified as a required clinical care area — and Standard 1 (The Person), which upholds dignity and comfort including freedom from preventable pain and discomfort.

Oral Health Compliance On Your Radar with Governa

Governa helps aged care providers track oral health assessment completion and link findings to care plans — reducing the risk of audit findings in this high-scrutiny area. Ask Norma to locate your oral health policy instantly.

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