Oral health in dementia patients
Adut, R.; Adut, M.; Mann, J.; Berkey, D.
Refu'at Ha-Peh Veha-Shinayim 20(1): 46-53; 80
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0792-9935 PMID: 12674924 Document Number: 564708
Dementia shares multiple clinical symptoms characterized by cognitive deficits that interfere with daily activities but differentiated by etiology. Advanced age is a major risk factor for dementia especially in more developed countries where older adults are most evident and growing rapidly. Since the prevalence of edentulism is decreasing, greater efforts will be necessary in the future to maintain oral health in dementia patients. Meeting the oral care needs of these individuals can be very challenging and should include prevention, maintenance of oral function and improved access for emergencies as well as regular dental care. Dental professionals should provide complex treatment utilizing appropriate behavioral and communication techniques. At the national level there is also a need for oral disease prevention programs directed towards staff, family members, and other caregivers of dementia patients.