Oral care for the homebound and institutionalized

Most patients who are homebound or in LTC facilities have multiple health problems that require the cooperation of many different types of providers. Dentists have a specific role in this process because they can improve the quality of life for the elderly by keeping them free of oral infection, restoring their dentition so they can enjoy eating, and restoring facial esthetics. It should be apparent that dental care for these patients is a complicated process. There are many considerations in prescribing the type of treatment needed by each patient. These include the patient's life span, medical history, drug history, mental status, mobility status, neuromuscular coordination, dental status, previous dental experience, dental expectations, and economic status. This information must be gathered by the dentist from the patient, the family, the nursing staff, and the patient's physician. Furthermore, the dentist also must assess the facilities and equipment available to carry out oral health care. Only after such considerations can a dental treatment plan evolve that is appropriate for the individual concerned. Dental care for one patient may be no treatment whatsoever, whereas a different patient in the same institution may require the most technologically sophisticated care that dentistry has to offer. Finally, the following circumstances should suggest that a homebound or institutionalized patient needs an urgent oral/dental evaluation: General Signs and Symptoms; Orofacial pain, Visible oral infection, Difficulty chewing food, Halitosis/dry burning mouth, Visible oral soft tissue lesions (white, red, or ulcerated). Tooth-related signs and symptoms; Visible dental decay, Loose or mobile teeth, Bleeding or sore gums. Denture-related Signs and Symptoms; Loose, ill-fitting, or worn dentures, Missing denture teeth, Home repairs attempted.