Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026
Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Self-reported dry mouth in Swedish population samples aged 50, 65 and 75 years
Ann-Katrin Johansson1, Anders Johansson, Lennart Unell
1Department of Clinical Dentistry-Cariology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway. ann-katrin.johansson@iko.uib.no
Background:
Reduced salivary flow may have a negative impact on general well-being, quality of life and oral health.
Objectives:
To examine xerostomia in 50-, 65- and 75-year-olds, background factors and effect on Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP).
Methods:
In 1992, a questionnaire was sent to all 50-year-old persons (n = 8888) in two Swedish counties. In 2007, the same questionnaire was sent to all 65-year-olds (n = 8313) in the two counties and to all 75-year-olds (n = 5195). Response rate was for the 50, 65 and 75 year olds 71.4, 73.1 and 71.9%, respectively.
Results:
Xerostomia was higher in women than in men in all age groups. There was higher prevalence of xerostomia with increasing age in both sexes and it was more frequent at night than during daytime. 'Often mouth dryness' was 2.6-3.4 times more prevalent in those who reported an impact from OIDP. The highest odd ratios were for daytime xerostomia and for the variables burning mouth (17.1), not feeling healthy (4.5), daily smoking (4.4), and medication (4.1).
Conclusions:
The dramatic increase of xerostomia between age 50 and 75, especially amongst women, needs to be considered in the management of this age group.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:23Salivary Glands and Saliva
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Oral
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...