Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece Developed to Alleviate Caregiver Fatigue in Swallowing Disorders

Japan: All Dental Japan Co., Ltd. in partnership with Dr Takeshi Hara from Kobayashi Dental Clinic has developed a Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece.

This specialized mouthpiece aims to address swallowing disorders by preventing saliva aspiration and providing a built-in Melasustaining suction tube. The developers created the device seeking to improve the quality of life for patients and their families, while also alleviating the caregiving burden they often face.

Concerns of Caregiver Fatigue 

A survey conducted on the caregiving platform “Caresle Care,” involving 300 caregivers, has shed light on the significant issue of caregiver fatigue. The survey results revealed that caregiver fatigue accounted for 45.7% of the respondents’ top concerns. The emotional and physical toll of caregiving was evident, highlighting the need for more effective solutions.

Among the symptoms experienced by patients with swallowing disorders, an increase in phlegm due to saliva aspiration necessitates frequent suctioning by nurses or family caregivers. This ongoing need for suctioning, even during sleep, contributes to caregiver fatigue. 

Recognizing this challenge, All Dental Japan and Kobayashi Dental Clinic joined forces to develop the Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece, which effectively integrates a mouthpiece and a Melasustaining suction tube.

Positive Feedback from Caregivers

Clinical tests with the Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece have reportedly yielded encouraging outcomes. According to a press release, graphical representation of the data reveals a reduction in phlegm suctioning incidents during nighttime suctioning, with the total incidents reaching zero after the implementation of the mouthpiece. 

Feedback from family caregivers indicates that they no longer need to wake up in the middle of the night to perform phlegm suctioning. This uninterrupted sleep allows caregivers to attain much-needed rest, leading to reduced fatigue and anxiety.

Dedicated Swallowing Disorders Clinic

Dr Takeshi Hara operates a dedicated swallowing disorders outpatient clinic at Kobayashi Dental Clinic on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month. This specialized clinic focuses on diagnosing and treating individuals facing difficulties with eating and swallowing, such as problems with proper food intake, food spillage, or choking during meals.

Additionally, patients can undergo a videofluoroscopy (VF) examination at Kobayashi Dental Clinic. This diagnostic test involves consuming a meal containing contrast agents, such as barium, under X-ray fluoroscopy. The procedure records images on video or DVD, enabling medical professionals to evaluate and diagnose swallowing movements and recommend appropriate food consistencies.

The collaborative efforts between All Dental Japan and Dr Takeshi Hara aim to improve the lives of patients with swallowing disorders and their caregivers. The Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece has the potential to alleviate caregiver fatigue, enhance patient care, and contribute to an improved quality of life for those affected by swallowing disorders.

Click here for more information on the Saliva Sustaining Suction Mouthpiece by All Dental Japan and Dr Takeshi Hara.