Oral Health

Maintaining the oral health of patients in PALTC settings can be challenging but is integral to overall health and wellbeing.

Oral Health Challenges in Older Adults

• Dental Wear and Decay: Natural wear over time, combined with a potentially increased sugary diet or medications causing dry mouth, can contribute to dental caries.
• Periodontal Disease: Chronic gum infections not only lead to tooth loss but have been linked to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
• Dysphagia and Aspiration: Poor oral health can contribute to swallowing difficulties, raising concerns about aspirating oral bacteria into the lungs and resulting in pneumonia.
• Impact on Nutrition: Compromised dentition or pain can deter optimal dietary intake.

Protocols for Enhanced Oral Health

• Regular Dental Screenings: Routine examinations can identify and address dental issues in their nascent stages.
• Hygienic Protocols: Daily oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwashes, must be consistent and adapted for those with dexterity or cognitive challenges.
• Dry Mouth Management: Given that several medications and conditions can induce xerostomia, regular hydration and specific salivary substitutes can be considered.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The nursing staff, primary care physicians, and on-call or visiting dentists should work in tandem to ensure a holistic approach to oral care.
• Education and Training: Staff should be taught about the nuances of oral care in older adults, especially when caring for those with cognitive decline or physical challenges.