Prediction of Oral Diseases in Care-Dependent Older People

This study assesses risk factors that non-dental care staff can use to identify older adults at risk of oral diseases in Denmark. Standardized oral examinations and questionnaires revealed that 54.5% of participants had oral diseases, and 14.8% had poor oral hygiene. Not visiting the dentist regularly and taking psychotropic drugs significantly increased risks. Poor oral health was linked to lower quality of life, affecting eating and social interactions. The study recommends incorporating simple oral health questions in caregiving routines to prevent oral diseases.

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