Preventive Oral Care for the Elderly Dental Patient 2nd Edition

Course overview

It is estimated that over 57.9 million people in the United States are aged 65 and over. As people live longer, they are retaining their natural teeth longer and have an increased need for dental care later in life. Many factors, including declines in motor skills, cognitive changes, multiple systemic diseases and medications, altered living situations and the need for caregivers, finances, and diminished health literacy, make it challenging for many older adults to maintain oral health. This Quality Resource Guide (QRG), using an evidence-based approach: reviews the factors that may impact the ability of an elderly patient to maintain oral health; discusses oral diseases that are more prevalent in the elderly, and; outlines preventive oral care measures to assist in maintaining oral health. It also outlines methods to assess and manage declines in motor and sensory skills, cognitive changes, and the complexities that arise when a patient has multiple systemic diseases or is taking multiple medications. This QRG will serve as an important resource for the dentist, and all members of the office staff, as they assess and provide therapy for a growing number of elderly patients within the practice.