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Updated: May 10, 2026
08:47
Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
[Oral ecosystem in elderly people]
Marie-Hélène Lacoste-Ferré1, Sophie Hermabessière, Fabienne Jézéquel
1CHU Toulouse Purpan, Hôpital Garonne, Toulouse. lacoste.mh@chu-toulouse.fr
Summary
Maintaining the oral ecosystem is crucial for elderly health, preventing malnutrition and oral diseases. Proper oral care strategies protect the delicate balance of the mouth in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Oral biology and health
- Geriatric medicine
- Microbiology
Context:
- The mouth is a vital digestive and communication organ, maintained by a balance between bacteria and saliva.
- The oral ecosystem protects against pathologies like caries and periodontitis.
- Aging impacts salivary flow, increases oral disease risk, and can destabilize this ecosystem.
Purpose:
- To describe the oral physiopathology in the elderly, focusing on microflora and salivary secretion.
- To outline strategies for preserving the oral ecosystem's balance in geriatric populations.
- To highlight the importance of oral health for nutrition and overall well-being in older adults.
Summary:
- Aging disrupts the oral ecosystem through reduced salivary flow, increased disease susceptibility, and external factors like dentures and systemic conditions.
- This destabilization promotes dental plaque and weakens oral tissues, increasing risks of undernutrition.
- Understanding oral microflora and salivary dynamics is key to developing protective strategies.
Impact:
- Preserving the oral ecosystem ensures adequate nutrition for the elderly by enabling proper eating.
- Proactive management of the oral environment can prevent common geriatric oral health issues.
- This research supports improved quality of life for seniors through better oral health maintenance.
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