The mentally confused geriatric dental patient

Mental confusion is an affliction of the aged. It is caused by acute and chronic brain disorders and by regressive tissue changes in the brain associated with aging. The mentally confused patient requiring dental care presents significant problems for the dentist. Oral diagnosis, treatment planning and treatment procedures are all seriously influenced by the patient's confused mental state necessitating a carefully programmed interview technique, possible modifications in prescribed treatment and behavioural management during treatment.