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Updated: Mar 14, 2026

Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Oral Health and Interprofessional Collaborative Practice: Examples of the Team Approach to Geriatric Care
Laura B Kaufman1, Michelle M Henshaw2, Blase P Brown3
1Department of General Dentistry, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, 100 E. Newton Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Section of Geriatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, MA 02118, USA.
Maintaining good oral health in older adults is essential for overall well-being. Effective interprofessional collaboration among healthcare providers, caregivers, and families significantly improves oral health outcomes for seniors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Oral Medicine
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Oral health is integral to older adults' overall health, impacting function, comfort, and communication.
- Common oral diseases like caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancer can cause pain and reduce quality of life.
- Effective collaboration among healthcare professionals, families, and caregivers is crucial for optimal oral health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the impact of interprofessional team dynamics on patient outcomes in older adults.
- To illustrate how collaboration influences the management of oral health in geriatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of two older adult patients.
- Examination of interprofessional team interactions and their effect on oral health management.
Main Results:
- Interprofessional team dynamics directly influence the effectiveness of oral care delivery.
- Positive team collaboration leads to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Emphasizes the critical role of interprofessional collaboration in achieving optimal oral health for older adults.
- Recommends strengthening team dynamics to enhance geriatric oral healthcare.
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